Tributes flow for mayor
Northern Grampians shire mayor Tony Driscoll has died.
Cr Driscoll served the council since October 2012, representing the Kara Kara Ward. He was mayor in 2016-17 and 2017-18, earning nomination for the top job for a third time in November 2021.
The council has paid tribute to Cr Driscoll, who died on Sunday after an illness.
“Cr Driscoll will be remembered for his dedication and integrity as mayor and councillor and the many achievements for the shire for which he played an integral role,” the council said in a statement.
“He was a passionate advocate for his community, remaining active in service throughout the course of his illness.”
Flags at Stawell and St Arnaud town halls are flying at half-mast.
The council, at its meeting on Monday morning, postponed all scheduled meetings until August 15 to respect a period of mourning.
“Our thoughts, love and deepest condolences go to Tony’s family, friends and loved ones,” the council said.
Member for Lowan Emma Kealy and Member for Mallee Anne Webster have paid tribute to Cr Driscoll, acknowledging his 10 years of service to the council.
“His passing is a huge loss for our region, and his contributions will leave an indelible mark on our community for many years to come,” Ms Kealy said.
Dr Webster said: “Cr Driscoll was a dedicated and kind man who gave himself in service to his community to make Northern Grampians a thriving place to live and work.
“He was a strong advocate for local projects, namely Lord Nelson Park, and worked hard to ensure local roads and community infrastructure projects were secured and delivered in the region.
“He will be sadly missed and leaves behind a great legacy of service and commitment to community.”
In a tribute on social media, former Northern Grampians Shire chief executive Michael Bailey said Cr Driscoll left a lasting legacy on the Northern Grampians community.
“There are no words that can describe his leadership, care, intelligence and determination to make the communities he was part of better places, particularly for future generations,” he said.
“To me, Tony was a boss, a leader, a mentor and most of all a mate. His support and willingness to guide me at any time day or night was beyond anything I could ask for.”