Mr Whitlam was Australia’s 21st Prime Minister, serving 1972 to 1975 before he was famously ‘dismissed’ by then Governor General Sir John Kerr.

In December 1982, Mr Whitlam came to Parkes to launch the Parkes Centenary of Local Government book which was produced by former Champion Post Editor, Ron Tindall.

Mr Tindall remembered the big event  fondly when contacted yesterday.

“Gough brought his grandson for the launch and it was quite an occasion,” Mr Tindall said.

Indeed, he did not miss the opportunity to have some fun with the former Prime Minister.

“It was not long after his dismissal, and there was a TV series made about the event.

“During the formal proceedings, I mentioned the fact that Gough was not the only PM to be dismissed, that there was indeed another who was from Parkes - and that his mother may even be in the audience.

“Gough was intrigued - I was referring to Max Phipps who actually played the role of Gough in the TV show, The Dismissal.

“It was probably the best line I ever produced,” Mr Tindall laughed yesterday.

“But Gough did not miss me either.  He said there was a major omission in the book.

“He explained that he actually completed his navigational training here in Parkes at the airforce base, and that he regularly enjoyed the hospitality of the CWA ladies at the base.

“That’s not in your book,” he said.

The Whitlam-Parkes connection also has some other interesting twists.

Gough flew into Parkes in 1975 and then enjoyed a steam train ride to Forbes to open the Lachlan Vintage Village.

He also returned to Parkes for the airforce base reunion 10 years ago.

Any many locals were also grateful that when he was PM, he abolished National Service!

Gough Whitlam won the Sydney seat of Werriwa in a by-election in 1952 and was re-elected at each subsequent election until his retirement in 1978.

Apart from his service as Prime Minister and Leader of the Opposition, Mr Whitlam was a successful barrister and Queen’s Counsel and served as a Flight Lieutenant in the RAAF in World War II.

He was a larger than life figure both physically and in his grace and charm which he combined with great oratory skills.

“Today we remember and respect the memory of a pillar of Australian politics.”

“Gough Whitlam was Prime Minister for three years and ended 23 years of conservative government. He was an inspiration for generations of Labor aspirants and was a man of huge intellect, presence and articulation.

“I have met Whitlam in my time in public life and always found him intelligent, genuine and determined.

“As a leader he stood out – he was courageous, confident and when he spoke he knew how to command a room and he always knew what he was fighting for.

“I’ve always felt his place in history was probably determined when he went to China while still opposition leader. In a sense he opened relations with China, and I respect that because it took a lot of courage and foresight.”

“Gough and Margaret Whitlam will be remembered as two people who gave their all to public life and I pass on my commiserations to their family and friends .”