Clyde Packer

Robert Clyde Packer (July 22 1935–April 9 2001), usually known as "Clyde", was the son of Australian newspaper magnate Frank Packer and the elder brother of media baron Kerry Packer, Frank Packer's heir and later the richest man in Australia. Packer was originally intended to be his father's heir before a falling out resulted in Kerry inheriting the family business.

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Dispute with father

Clyde was the eldest son of media baron Sir Frank Packer. In 1972 his first marriage broke up and he had a public falling out with his father. He resigned his posts as managing director of the Nine Network and general manager of Australian Consolidated Press after his father refused to air an interview with then union leader, Bob Hawke. In 1976 he sold his quarter share of the family business for A$4 million to his younger brother Kerry, who went on to become Australia's richest man.

Political career

Clyde was also a Liberal member of the New South Wales Legislative Council from 1964 to 1976.

Counter-cultural involvement

After his resignation, Clyde became briefly involved in the counter-culture (famously wearing a kaftan), before moving to California in 1976. He rarely returned to Australia.

In America, Clyde pursued interests in film, surf culture, and magazine publishing.

Clyde was married twice, to Angela Money and Kate Clifford. Like his brother Kerry he suffered from heart and kidney problems, and had a kidney donated from a close associate (in his case, his architect).

References

• Obituary