Few politicians have had the same impact on Australia’s music scene as Bob Hawke, and so it’s not surprising that a slew of tributes for the beloved former Labor leader have made their way onto social media since his passing.
Not only did Hawke play a big part in Yothu Yindi’s powerful single Treaty, comedians Paul Jennings and Maree Anne Koomen wrote The Bob Hawke Drinking Song in his honour, highlighting how diverse a reach he had.
He helped celebrate Countdown’s 10th anniversary, and in recent years was a regular at Woodford Folk Festival, all the while inspiring countless artists and more.
WATCH: Here's a clip of Bob Hawke singing Waltzing Matilda backstage at this year's Woodford Folk Festival. He'd been a regular visitor there for several years, but said this would be his last time. pic.twitter.com/dfmukxD4A3
— ABC Politics (@politicsabc) May 17, 2019
R.I.P Bob Hawke. A great Labor Prime Minister. A great Australian.
— Jimmy Barnes (@JimmyBarnes) May 16, 2019
“A working class hero is something to be” pic.twitter.com/cBGMKQxTPx
Bob Hawke was the Prime Minister I grew up with. What a spark to witness, as a little kid. Thank you for Medicare; the envy of many. Thank you for your fights for the Tarkine and Antarctica. Thanks for keeping it entertaining. Rest In Peace, Bob.
— Zan Rowe (@zanrowe) May 16, 2019
Bob Hawke. Served Australia with incredible passion, humor and love for the country. Rest In Peace. @Deborra_lee
— Hugh Jackman (@RealHughJackman) May 16, 2019
Statement from Gumatj leader and YYF chair Galarrwuy Yunupingu pic.twitter.com/N5a67wnECH
— YothuYindiFoundation (@YothuYindiFound) May 16, 2019
