1937: Kerry Francis Bullmore Packer born on December 17 in Australia

1956: He finishes his education at Geelong Grammar and goes to work in the family business, Australian Consolidated Press

1972: He and his brother Clyde persuade their father to sell Sydney’s Telegraph newspapers to Rupert Murdoch

1974: Takes over the running of the family company, Publishing and Broadcasting Limited, including the Nine television network

1977: Sets up World Series Cricket, attracting top players including the England captain Tony Greig

1987: Sells his two Channel Nine TV stations to businessman Alan Bond for one billion dollars

1990: Suffers a massive attack while playing polo in Sydney, and is resuscitated for six minutes

1991:
Tries to buy the Fairfax newspaper group, but meets resistance from the
Australian parliament and withdraws as controlling shareholder in the
consortium

1994: His wealth is savaged by foreign-exchange
losses, an unsuccessful bid for the Sydney casino licence and a
plunging share price

1999: PBL takes overownership of Melbourne’s Crown Casino and begins its growth in gaming

2000: Packer’s long-serving helicopter pilot, Nick Ross, donates one of his own kidneys for transplantation to his boss

2004:
Announces a joint venture agreement with Betfair, the British online
betting exchange, enabling the British company to operate in Australia

2005: His wealth is estimated at AU$6.9 billion making him the richest man in Australia and the 94th richest man in the world

2005: Dies at the age of 68 on December 26 at home with his family

SOURCES: The Times (UK), ABC, BRW, Four Corners