Dame Marie Bashir, the first female governor of New South Wales and a distinguished psychiatrist, has died at the age of 95. Her death was confirmed by NSW Premier Chris Minns on Tuesday, who announced that she will be honoured with a state funeral.
Premier Minns expressed deep condolences on behalf of the people of NSW, describing her as an extraordinary Australian who served the state with dignity and compassion from 2001 to 2014. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese paid tribute, highlighting her pioneering role as the first woman to serve as NSW governor and her lifelong dedication to medicine, community service, and helping others.
Born in Narrandera in 1930, Bashir graduated in medicine and surgery from the University of Sydney in 1956, later becoming a clinical professor of psychiatry and serving as the university's chancellor. She was the first person of Lebanese descent appointed as NSW governor and the third woman to hold such a role in an Australian state.
Bashir was married to Sir Nicholas Shehadie for 61 years and had three children and six grandchildren. Former NSW Premier Bob Carr, who recommended her appointment, called her the most compassionate person he had ever met, praising her focus on adolescent psychiatry. Independent MP Alex Greenwich noted her support for the LGBTIQA+ community, including her role as parade marshal for the 2015 Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras.
Premier Minns recalled Bashir's decision not to surpass Sir Roden Cutler as the longest-serving governor, reflecting her humility and respect for predecessors. He stated that the people of NSW held her in great respect and affection for her lifetime of service.
