South Australian judge Malcolm Blue dies in farm accident – three weeks after retiring

One of Australia’s most highly-respected judges has died in a farming accident just three weeks after beginning his retirement. 

Former SA Supreme Court Justice Malcolm Blue KC, 70, was killed in an incident involving a tractor at a vineyard in Willunga South, south of Adelaide, shortly before 11am on Saturday.

Justice Blue had retired last month after a 47-year legal career, including a 13-year stint as a Supreme Court judge.

During his time on the court, the 70-year-old earned the respect of both legal professionals and politicians. 

The judge’s family said he had been excited to spend more time with his loved ones in retirement.

‘We are devastated by Malcolm’s loss. He was a much-loved and loving father, partner and brother, and cherished his family,’ the family told Adelaide Now.

‘Malcolm was always kind, funny, smart and wonderfully supportive for family, friends and legal colleagues. 

‘He was both gentle and brilliant and will be missed terribly.

‘Having achieved so much during a long and distinguished legal career, Malcolm was looking forward to spending more time with his family on the property.

‘Malcolm will be deeply missed by his partner Angela, daughters Charlotte, Victoria and Alex, three sisters, along with his extended family, many friends, and colleagues in the legal fraternity.’

The circumstances of Justice Blue’s death at the Fleurieu Peninsula remain unclear.

SA Police are preparing a report for the coroner and Safework SA is investigating the case.

Justice Blue handled several of the state’s most high-profile cases while working in the Supreme Court.

Some of those included the Hillier triple murders in 2016, Robert Fitzsimmons’ drunk stomping death in 2014 and the dispute over $360million worth of defects at the Royal Adelaide Hospital in 2016.

Justice Blue was appointed to the King’s Counsel, one of law’s highest honours, in 2001 and graduated from the University of Adelaide.

SA premier Peter Malinauskas paid tribute to Justice Blue during a press conference on Sunday.

‘Mr Blue was a great South Australian who served his community exceptionally well over a very long period of time,’ Mr Malinauskas said.

‘I’m sure that South Australia will appropriately honour him as someone who’s made a major contribution.’

The circumstances of Justice Blue’s death remain unclear with Safework SA investigating the case

Chief Justice of South Australia Chris Kourakis acknowledged Blue’s death would be felt across Australia’s judiciary system.

‘The judges of the Supreme Court, the judiciary of this state and across the country, and the legal profession mourn the loss of their colleague,’ he said.

‘Justice Blue was a pre-eminent intellect and jurist who selflessly devoted his energy to the work of the court and making justice more accessible to the people of South Australia.’