Trailblazing female MP dies
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Ms Chadwick is survived by her husband, two children and three grandchildren. (AMSA)
Former New South Wales Liberal Minister Virginia Chadwick died of cancer yesterday, aged 64.
A former teacher from Newcastle, Ms Chadwick was elected to parliament in 1978.
State Liberal Leader Barry O'Farrell says she broke through several gender barriers, becoming the first female opposition whip, the first female education minister, the first female liberal minister and the first female president of the legislative council.
"Virginia achieved many firsts in her career. She didn't just reach the glass ceiling, she smashed through it," he said.
She served in a range of portfolios including Family and Community Services, Education, Employment and Tourism.
Amongst her achievements, she pushed for the mandatory reporting of child abuse and established the Board of Studies.
Ms Chadwick is survived by her husband, two children and three grandchildren.
