SERVICE TO BE ADMIRED

DAWN Crichlow is Southport.

The CBD’s firebrand councillor has been in office for 29 years and become synonymous with the suburb she has long represented with passion.

But when the veteran city leader retires in just three weeks, Southport will have to pick a new champion .

Yesterday’s last council meeting before the election marked the end of an era.

Aside from Cr Crichlow, City Hall has bid farewell to long-serving councillor and mayor Gary Baildon and Paul Taylor.

The departures of Crs Crichlow and Baildon are a particularly significant moment. Between them they have given 47 years service to local government, helping to steer the city through triumph and pain.

Both are veterans of the turbulent 1990s, which included the amalgamation of the Gold Coast and Albert Shire councils and the divisive but ultimately unsuccessful referendum to de-amalgamate.

Cr Taylor is ending his political career after eight years of service.

Our city leaders do not always get it right and not everyone will be sad to see them go. But it is appropriate and important to acknowledge and celebrate their strength, heart and fight to make their community a better place.

The work is never done but these councillors will be able to walk proudly into the sunset knowing they leave their respective suburbs in greater shape than when they arrived.

With a changing of the guard comes a new beginning and hope for fresh councillors to instil fresh ideas to help lead the Gold Coast into a new chapter.

It is hoped those people can provide the same vigour and passion as their predecessors as the city tackles transport, development and social challenges stemming from rapid growth.