It is with great sadness that we share news of the passing of the Honourable Tom Roper. Tom was a long-term Director and Board member at Greenfleet, and a distinguished Australian politician.
Tom Roper was born in Sydney in 1947, and he pursued a career in politics after completing his studies in law served extensively in public office. Tom was involved in environmental policy at all levels – local to international. He was an active Board Member of both Greenfleet and the Washington DC based Climate Institute, and an advisor to government, business and NGO’s on sustainability issues.
During his twenty-one years in Parliament, half as a senior Government Minister, his portfolios included Treasury, Planning and Environment, Health, Transport, Aboriginal Affairs, and Employment and Higher Education. Through this time, Tom Roper was known for his dedication to public service and his unwavering commitment to the values of justice, equality, and environmental sustainability.
Tom was Greenfleet’s longest serving board member, joining in 2002, also serving on Greenfleet’s Remuneration and Nomination, and Marketing & Engagement committees. He was a steadfast, stubborn, and deeply caring mentor to me and previous Greenfleet Board Chairs. He provided very practical links into the political system when required and his sharp observations and pragmatic approach were instrumental in expanding Greenfleet over the years. Under Tom’s board appointment, Greenfleet surpassed over 10 million trees planted in Australia and New Zealand, that will sequester over 4.4 million tonnes of carbon emissions.
Tom Roper's contributions to public life were widely recognised. He was a respected lawyer, a loving husband and father, and a beloved member of his local community. He will be deeply missed by those who knew him.
Tom Roper's legacy will live on through Greenfleet’s work. We hope that his commitment to the environment, social justice and human rights will also inspire future generations to fight for a more sustainable future.
We extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends, and colleagues, and we honour his memory with gratitude and respect.
