Obituaries Australia

Mr. John Fortunatus Higgins, M.L.C., a leading figure in the Federal Labor movement in New South Wales, died suddenly at his home in Carlisle Street, Rose Bay, last night.

He was 51 years of age.

Mr. Higgins was apparently in good health, up to within a few hours of his death. He followed his usual activities during the past few days, and his death was most unexpected.

He left a widow and one daughter.

This afternoon the remains will be taken to the Church of St. Mary Magdalene at Rose Bay and will remain there until the funeral at 10.30 a.m. on Thursday.

Mr. Higgins was born at Hobart on October 31, 1884.

After leaving school, he visited many of the States as a worker in several trades, finally becoming a journalist on the Dookie and Katamatite Recorder in Victoria.

Throughout his life, he retained close affiliations with the Press.

About 20 years ago Mr. Higgins became interested in industrial organisation. For some years he was closely identified with the organisation of the Australian Workers' Union in New South Wales. He was attached to the executive.

He possessed a keen and analytical political mind, and in 1921 was appointed to the Legislative Council of New South Wales, where he rendered signal service to the Labor Party during several Labor Ministries.

He was among the first batch elected to the reformed Legislative Council in 1934, securing a 15 year term.

For about seven years before his death, he edited several weekly trade publications, and was publicity officer for suppliers of road making material, and other building requisites.

He was a keen surfer, and helped materially in the improvement of several Sydney beaches.