Gough Whitlam, who turns 98 on Friday, remains an inspiration to millions of Australians, according to another of Labor's favourite sons.
Veteran senator and ALP historian John Faulkner wished the former prime minister happy birthday in a Senate speech on Thursday night that focused on a long and active life after politics.
Mr Whitlam had academic posts in Australia and overseas, with particular interests in China, constitutional change and electoral reform.
He was Australia's ambassador to UNESCO and chaired the general assembly of the World Heritage Convention. Other posts included the senate of Sydney University and chairman of the National Gallery of Australia.
In 1999, he campaigned for the republic.
"Any list of achievements omits how often Gough was there - in his office, at the end of a phone - responding to sometimes detailed inquiries that only he could answer," Senator Faulkner told parliament.
"Only he could add the minutiae, the colour and the human interest."
Senator Faulkner said the former PM's "long and fortunate life" - Mr Whitlam's own description in 1997 - continued.
"Age may have limited his mobility, but not his mission; his senses are slower but his spirit still strong," Senator Faulkner said.
Last Thursday, the pair shared their regular glass of Passiona soft drink.
The Whitlam verdict: "Bloody good, comrade."
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