Having been very unwell for some years, the news of Graham's passing was not a complete surprise. The media had previously reported him sustaining significant injuries in separate falls at his home in Canyonleigh, NSW. Adding to this was a pre-existing diabetes condition and a sustained intake of cigarettes and alcohol which, ignoring doctors’ orders, he continued to enjoy.

Close friends Tony Sattler and Noeline Brown organised for the ailing Graham to spend his final days at Kenilworth Gardens Retirement Village in Bowral, NSW. His passing was reported across the country, precipitating renewed interest in his life and career. Indicative of his status as a media icon, a highly publicised funeral celebration organised a week later was broadcast nationally on three television networks.

'What motivates me in life? It’s to keep breathing. I wake up in the morning and say “I’ve made it again, let’s rejoice". I do not think I go intellectually into what’s it all about. I’m a fairly simple person.' (Kennedy speaking to Mark Lawrence of The Age - Green Guide, 25 May 1978)

Notes by Simon Smith