Author and journalist Blanche d’Alpuget dies aged 82
The death of Bob Hawke’s widow was announced by her family on Wednesday morning.
Blanche d'Alpuget, the celebrated Australian writer and widow of former Prime Minister Bob Hawke, passed away at 82 due to complications from influenza. Known for her biographies, novels, and essays, d'Alpuget left behind a final message that read, "Our highest calling and greatest achievement is love, the rule of life. Love one another."
Her family honored her memory, recalling her fearless spirit, humor, curiosity, and boundless love. Survived by her son, granddaughter, and several step-relatives, d'Alpuget was born and raised in Sydney before delving into journalism and traveling extensively. She returned to Australia at age 30 and embarked on a writing career, exploring themes of power and politics.
Her 1977 biography of Sir Richard Kirby received critical acclaim, and later, she ventured into historical fiction, delving into the lives of Henry II and Eleanor of Aquitaine. D'Alpuget's relationship with Hawke, which began in 1970, was marked by public criticism, yet he expressed gratitude for the easing of tensions before his death in 2019.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese paid tribute to the writer, hailing her as a distinctive Australian figure, and described her final message as fitting.
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