Rick Rockliff, Tasmanian agricultural identity and father of Tasmanian premier Jeremy Rockliff, dies

Rick Rockliff has been described as a “stalwart and a mover and shaker” in Tasmania’s agriculture sector. (Supplied: Rockliff family)

Rick Rockliff, farmer, popular north-west Tasmania community member and father of Premier Jeremy Rockliff, has died aged 79.

Mr Rockliff spent decades working in the alkaloids industry and was an award-winning poppy and potato farmer, involved in the industry for more than 45 years.

On a lighter note, he was also known as the man behind the big spud, Kenny Kennebec, which was on display at Sassafras in northern Tasmania.

Jeremy Rockliff announced the news on social media.

Mr Rockliff said his father was, “a legend, a loyal, caring and proud dad, grandfather and loving husband”.

“We are so proud of all Dad achieved across the fields of agriculture, local government, the arts and community service,” Mr Rockliff wrote.

Mr Rockliff received the Order of Australia in 2000 for his services to the community, particularly in the areas of agriculture, arts and local government.

Acting Premier Michael Ferguson released a statement offering his condolences for Mr Rockliff, describing Rick Rockliff as a “beloved husband, father and grandfather”.

“Jeremy, together with his mother Gerry, and the extended Rockliff family are all in our thoughts and prayers at this time,” he said.

“Mr Rockliff has been a tower of strength for the north-west community for many decades and was a much loved husband, father, grandfather, farmer, and community member.

“Rick shared with me on the day of Jeremy’s swearing in as premier how proud he was of his son.”

Liberal MP Roger Jaensch said “all of our thoughts are prayers are with the Rockliff family and our premier right now”.

“Rick Rockliff has been an icon of this region for his whole life, ever since I have been here on the coast in agriculture and local government as well,” he said.

“The Rockliff family has lost their father today and we are all very sad about that and wish them all the best.”

In a statement, the board and staff of the Tasmanian Farmers and Graziers Association said they were saddened by Mr Rockliff’s death, describing him as a  “stalwart and a mover and shaker” in the agriculture sector in Tasmania, especially the poppy industry.

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