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Mourning Libs to replace deceased MP Don Randall

The political world has reacted to the shocking news of West Australian MP Don Randall’s sudden death.

Mr Randall was found unresponsive in his car near Boddington Golf Course, after failing to attend a forum he had organised at a local IGA.

Police say there are no suspicious circumstances and 62-year-old Mr Randall is expected to have suffered a heart attack.

While Liberal MPs are just coming to grips with Mr Randall’s shock passing, the party will have to find a replacement to run for his seat.

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Mr Randall’s death leaves a vacancy in the West Australian seat of Canning, to be filled by a by-election at a time determined by the Speaker.

Tributes poured in from all corners of politics last night, with the political veteran hailed as a passionate champion for his state and a friend to many on both sides of politics.

Don Randall MP

Mr Randall was born in rural Merredin in 1953. Photo: AAP

Opposition Leader Bill Shorten said Mr Randall was liked on both sides of the parliament and was counted as a friend by many within the Labor Party.

“He was a thoroughly good and decent bloke,” Mr Shorten said.

“He will be remembered for his commitment to community service, his wit, his frank opinions freely shared and his abiding loyalty to his friends.”

Fellow Western Australian, Foreign Minister Julie Bishop, praised Mr Randall’s dedication to promoting the interests of their state.

“Don had a giant personality and approached each day with great enthusiasm,” she said.

Scott Morrison took to Twitter to pay tribute to the “great bloke” saying, “I’ll really miss him”.

Tony Abbott also released a statement after the news broke last night.

“Don was an outstanding local member. He was a passionate and persuasive advocate in Canberra and a hardworking community leader in Western Australia,” the prime minister said.

“It’s hard to credit that this strong voice for Western Australia and servant of our party has left us so soon. All his colleagues will mourn his passing and honour the contribution that he has made.”

WA Premier Colin Barnett said he was “shocked and saddened” by Mr Randall’s death.

“Don was a very committed local member who worked hard for his constituents.

“We extend our deepest sympathy to his wife Julie and his family.”

Before his election to the House of Representatives, Mr Randall was a teacher, horse trainer and local councillor.

Don Randall first ran for local office in the electorate of Belmont in 1993, eventually serving as the member for Canning from 2001.

He was re-elected to the marginal seat four times.

Mr Randall was one of two MPs behind the failed spill motion against Prime Minister Tony Abbott in February, saying at the time his electorate was concerned about the leader.

Mr Randall is survived by his wife Julie and two children.

A by-election must be held on a Saturday and is usually declared as early as possible so electors are not left without representation.

Mr Randall held Canning with a margin of 12 per cent on a two party preferred basis.

Parliament resumes on August 10 after a winter break.

See the official statement released by Don Randall’s office below:

   Don Randall official media statement.

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