The State has lost a fantastic Tasmanian, with the passing of Mort Douglas.

Mr Douglas was a Launceston icon who helped reshape the city as we know it and held a passion and vision to make Tasmania a better place.

The successful businessman was behind Morty’s Food Hall, and a string of retail outlets and developments in the North and on the East Coast of Tasmania.

I wish to recognise Mr Douglas for his thoughtful innovation, which is widely recognised as being well ahead of his time.

He leaves a legacy many will remember.

On behalf of the Tasmanian Government I send my deepest sympathies to Mr Douglas’ wife Carol, three children Marcus, Peter and Susan, his step-children, Ben and Katie as well as his family and many friends.