L
The Star Weekly is looking back at some of the stories that made headlines in 2023.
Former Wyndham councillor and three-time mayor John Gibbons is being remembered as the council’s ‘voice of reason’ following his death last week.
Mr Gibbons, OAM, died on Friday, June 2.
He served on the Shire of Werribee, City of Werribee and City of Wyndham councils.
Mr Gibbons was first elected to council in 1983 and was elected shire president in August of that year.
He served two terms in the role until August, 1985, before returning as mayor of the City of Werribee between August, 1992, and August the following year.
He returned to the council in 2012 until October 2020.
Mr Gibbons is a foundation member of Victoria University and in 2004 he received an Order of Australia for services to education and the Wyndham community.
In 2014, he was presented with the honorary title of Mayor Emeritus, which is awarded by the Municipal Association of Victoria and recognises councillors who have served three or more terms as mayor.
On Monday, Wyndham mayor Susan McIntyre paid tribute to Mr Gibbons on behalf of council.
“John Gibbons OAM was a stalwart of the Wyndham community having served both as councillor and mayor, representing the interests of his community across many years,” she said.
“Staff and councillors were deeply saddened to hear of John’s passing – he was a valued colleague, leader and friend.
“As a long-time resident of Hoppers Crossing, John advocated for major projects such as the Aquapulse and Encore Events Centre upgrade, the redevelopment of Mossfiel Reserve and he was a strong advocate for the rejuvenation of the Woodville Shopping Centre precinct.
“John was also a keen supporter of city-shaping projects in the Werribee City Centre, particularly the redevelopment of Wyndham Park.
“John could always be relied upon to be the ‘voice of reason’ on so many occasions but also ensured good humour was at the heart of what he did.
“On behalf of Wyndham council, I wish to extend my sincerest condolences to John’s family, particularly his beloved children and grandchildren.”
