Speak to anyone - be it a personal friend of many decades, a political rival, or someone whose brush with Mr Fischer was merely fleeting - and they will all say the same thing: he was a thoroughly decent man.

Possessing rare drive, discipline and dedication, Mr Fischer was the ultimate advocate for the interests of rural and regional residents at both state and federal level.

It is a sad day for the Riverina with the passing of the 'Boy from Boree Creek', but his legacy will live on forever.

Vale Tim.

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