Deaths on January 15

Ned Hanlon, Australian sergeant and politician, 26th Premier of Queensland (b. 1887)

Edward Michael Hanlon (1 October 1887 – 15 January 1952), widely known as Ned, was a distinguished Australian politician and soldier whose career culminated in his tenure as Premier of Queensland from 1946 until his death in 1952. His leadership significantly shaped the post-war development of Queensland, presiding over a period of substantial growth and reform.

Early Life, Union Activism, and Military Service

Born in Brisbane on 1 October 1887, then part of the Colony of Queensland, Ned Hanlon was the son of Irish immigrant parents, a background that often influenced social and political perspectives in Australia. He remained a lifelong resident of Brisbane. After completing his schooling, Hanlon began his professional life working within the burgeoning railway system, a common entry point for working-class individuals into public service and unionism. His dedication quickly saw him rise to become a prominent union official.

Hanlon's early career was marked by a strong commitment to workers' rights, vividly demonstrated by his significant and militant role in the 1912 Brisbane General Strike. This major industrial dispute, which saw approximately 40,000 workers across various industries participate, effectively paralysed the city for weeks. Hanlon's active involvement showcased his militant stance and formidable organising skills, solidifying his reputation as a powerful advocate for the labour movement.

Between 1915 and 1919, Hanlon put his life on hold to serve his country during the First World War. He served with distinction in the Australian Imperial Force (AIF), specifically within the 9th Battalion, 3rd Brigade, 1st Division. This highly regarded unit participated in some of the most arduous campaigns of the war, including the infamous landing at Anzac Cove during the Gallipoli Campaign, and later, the brutal trench warfare on the Western Front at battles such as Pozières and Fromelles, where Australian forces sustained heavy casualties. The traditions and hard-won battle honours of this historic battalion continue to be proudly carried by the modern 9th Battalion, Royal Queensland Regiment.

During his military service, Hanlon served under Captain Cec Carroll. This connection proved significant years later, as Hanlon, then serving as the Queensland Minister for Home Affairs in 1934, appointed Carroll as the Queensland Police Commissioner, highlighting a long-standing relationship built on trust and shared experience.

A Rising Political Force in Queensland

Ned Hanlon's political career truly began in 1926 when he was elected to the Queensland Legislative Assembly, the state's parliament, representing the Labor Party for the Brisbane electoral district of Ithaca. This marked the start of a two-decade ascent through the ranks of Queensland Labor politics.

Over these years, he held several key cabinet portfolios, gaining invaluable administrative experience. His tenure as the Health Ministry, a role he held from 1932 to 1944, was particularly noteworthy. During this period, Hanlon collaborated closely with the esteemed doctor and administrator Sir Raphael Cilento, a pioneer in public health, especially in tropical medicine and later, post-war immigration. Together, they spearheaded significant public health initiatives, including the expansion of the public hospital system across Queensland, campaigns against diseases like tuberculosis, and the improvement of general health services, laying foundations for a more robust public health infrastructure.

In 1946, after the retirement of the septuagenarian Frank Cooper, who had served as Premier since 1942, Hanlon's extensive experience and political acumen saw him ascend to the state's highest office, becoming the Premier of Queensland.

Premier Hanlon: Shifting Ideals and Confrontation

The trajectory of Hanlon's political outlook underwent a notable transformation throughout his career. While he began as a fervent union militant, a staunch advocate for workers' rights, his responsibilities as Premier seemingly led to a more pragmatic and, some argued, rightward shift in his political leanings. This evolution became starkly apparent during the tumultuous 1948 Queensland Railway Strike.

This major industrial dispute, involving railway workers demanding better wages and conditions in the post-war era, brought Hanlon's government into direct conflict with the very union movement from which he had emerged. As Premier, Hanlon made the controversial decision to declare a state of emergency, invoking the Industrial Conciliation and Arbitration Act to limit strike actions. In an act that deeply divided the Labor movement, he authorised the use of police to suppress union demonstrations and picket lines, a move that stood in sharp contrast to his militant beginnings and cemented his image as a leader willing to take decisive, even unpopular, action to maintain industrial peace and governmental authority.

Final Years and Passing

Ned Hanlon's premiership was tragically cut short by illness. On 17 June 1951, while on official duties in Canberra, he contracted severe bronchial pneumonia. He spent three weeks hospitalised before being able to return to Queensland on 5 July. His health continued to decline, leading to his admission to the Mater private hospital on 8 August, where he required oxygen support. Although he initially survived this acute phase, doctors warned of a prolonged period of ill health, prompting him to take a six-month leave of absence from the premiership, entrusting acting leadership to his deputy.

Despite a brief period in October where it appeared his condition had improved enough for him to consider leaving the hospital, Hanlon suffered another severe setback. He remained hospitalised, battling his illness, until his death on 15 January 1952, marking a rare instance of a Queensland Premier dying in office.

Following his death, Ned Hanlon was succeeded as Premier by Vince Gair. Hanlon's passing marked the penultimate chapter of an extraordinary era for Queensland Labor; Gair would be the last leader of the continuous state Labor Party administration that had governed Queensland uninterruptedly since 1932. This remarkable period of political dominance, often referred to as the "State Labor" era, would eventually conclude with the dramatic Labor split in 1957, bringing an end to over two decades of continuous Labor rule.

In recognition of his significant contributions and dedicated public service, Edward Michael Hanlon was accorded a State funeral. The solemn procession took place from St Stephen's Cathedral, Brisbane's Catholic Cathedral, reflecting his Irish heritage, to the historic Toowong Cemetery, where he was laid to rest amidst other notable figures in Queensland's history.

Frequently Asked Questions about Edward Michael "Ned" Hanlon

When did Ned Hanlon serve as Premier of Queensland?

Edward Michael "Ned" Hanlon served as the Premier of Queensland from 1946 until his death in January 1952, making him one of the few Premiers to die in office.

What was Ned Hanlon's political party?

Ned Hanlon was a prominent and long-serving member of the Australian Labor Party throughout his political career.

What was the significance of the 1948 Queensland Railway Strike in Hanlon's career?

The 1948 Queensland Railway Strike was a pivotal event that highlighted Hanlon's shift from a union militant to a pragmatic Premier. He controversially used police to suppress striking workers, a decision that caused significant division within the Labor movement but asserted governmental authority during a period of intense industrial unrest.

What major initiatives were undertaken during Hanlon's time as Health Minister?

As Health Minister (1932-1944), Hanlon, in collaboration with Sir Raphael Cilento, oversaw significant reforms including the expansion of Queensland's public hospital system and the implementation of public health campaigns, particularly aimed at combating infectious diseases and improving overall healthcare infrastructure.

Where is Ned Hanlon buried?

Ned Hanlon was laid to rest at the Toowong Cemetery in Brisbane, following a State funeral from St Stephen's Cathedral.