Former Liberal MP Jennifer Cashmore AM, the mother of South Australian Governor Frances Adamson, has been remembered for her “trailblazing legacy” following her death at 86.
The governor confirmed Ms Cashmore died at home on Monday morning.
Ms Cashmore was the third woman elected to the South Australian parliament and served as the member for Coles, now Morialta, from 1977 to 1993.
Ms Cashmore was also the minister for health and tourism from 1979 to 1982.
In a statement, the governor said her mother was a remarkable woman and a courageous trailblazer.
Ms Cashmore drew attention to the failure of the State Bank and was instrumental in the development of the Consent to Medical Treatment and Palliative Care Act.
SA Premier Peter Malinauskas said he was deeply saddened by the news and she had left an “indelible mark” on the state.
“For 12 of her almost 17 years in parliament, she was the only woman representing her party,” Mr Malinauskas said.
“Jennifer Cashmore’s political career was marked by her deeply held commitment to Liberal principles.
“Her courage cannot be understated. History will judge her political record favourably.”
He said she had advocated for environmental protection since the early 90s.
“She made headlines in 1988 after announcing that she’d cross the floor to support a ban on tobacco advertising,” he said.
“At times dubbed the ‘Green Conscience’ of the Liberal Party, Jennifer Cashmore threatened to stand in front of bulldozers to oppose development at Wilpena Pound.”
A ‘trailblazing legacy’
The deputy leader of the opposition, John Gardner, also paid tribute.
“After leaving parliament, Jennifer Cashmore continued to be active in the community, and is remembered as a mentor to many who followed, including in the current parliamentary team,” he said.
“As recently as April this year, she was still active in public life, attending the rally on the steps of Parliament House in opposition to funding cuts and the proposed restructure of the South Australian Museum.
“Her attendance was applauded loudly by the thousand South Australians in attendance, welcoming her back to Parliament House for the first time in more than a decade.
“To her friends and family, Jennifer Cashmore will be keenly missed. To our state, she leaves a trailblazing legacy of achievement and service.”
Labor MP Tom Koutsantonis also paid tribute on social media, and said she was a key figure for women in politics.
“Jennifer Cashmore was an incredible woman and a seasoned parliamentary debater,” he wrote.
“Ms Cashmore raised the public consciousness of the State Bank debacle and helped smash glass ceilings for women in politics.
“God rest her and comfort those who loved her.”
