Thursday, 19 February 2026

 Ella GEORGE (Lara) (10:14): I rise today to express my sincere condolences to the friends and family of Edward Ron ‘Jack’ Carroll, who passed away on 7 January 2026. Jack’s life was one of service, and it is an honour to remember him in this place today. Born in Geelong in 1923, Jack’s military career began at just 16 when he joined the air training corps. At 18 he enlisted in the citizen military forces as a volunteer before serving with distinction in the Australian Imperial Force during World War II. His courage and leadership saw him promoted to corporal, with postings in New Guinea and the Solomon Islands, and later supporting the recovery of prisoners of war in Singapore. While away from home Jack kept meticulous diaries that bear witness to both the hardship and the mateship that define the Anzac spirit.

Returning home, Jack channelled his dedication into decades of community work. He was a member of the RSL for years, advocating for veterans welfare and supporting families during the Vietnam War. His commitment earned him an Order of Australia medal, a testament to his selfless contributions. Beyond his service Jack was a devoted market gardener, a regular at community events and a quiet mentor to many.

Jack told his grandchildren, ‘Let us go out of this world having made a contribution toward it being a far, far better place than when we first entered it’, and I cannot think of better advice to members of Parliament. My deepest condolences to Jack’s children Ron and Marion Carroll, Heather and Ian Baxter and June Waight and Jack’s extended family and friends. Vale, Jack Carroll.