Former SA Supreme Court Justice Malcolm Blue dies in farm accident, three weeks after retiring

One of South Australia’s most respected judges has died in a farm accident over the weekend, just three weeks after he began his retirement.

Former Supreme Court Justice Malcolm Blue KC, 70, was involved in a tractor accident at a vineyard in Willunga South on Saturday morning.

South Australia Police said he died at the scene.

Blue retired last month after serving as a Supreme Court judge for 13 years and earning the respect of politicians and legal professionals.

His family said Blue had been looking forward to spending more time with his family during his retirement.

“We are devastated by Malcolm’s loss. He was a much-loved and loving father, partner and brother, and cherished his family,” his family said in a statement to News Corp.

“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.”

It is unclear exactly what may have occurred during the fatal tractor incident.

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

His family said Blue had a “love for the land inspired by his parents, who had owned farms at Myponga and the South East”.

SA Premier Peter Malinauskas praised Blue’s service to the state at 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,” Malinauskas said.

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

Chief Justice of South Australia Chris Kourakis said Blue’s death was felt across Australia’s judiciary and legal profession.

“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,” he said.