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House of Assembly - Fifty-Fifth Parliament, First Session (55-1)
2025-03-06 Daily Xml
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O'Brien, Mr G.E.

The Hon. A. PICCOLO (Light) (15:40): Today, I would like to honour a remarkable individual, Mayor Bill O'Brien of the Light Regional Council, who has announced that he is stepping down this month after dedicating more than 14 years of his life to the role, serving the community with unwavering commitment, integrity and a heart full of compassion. Over the years, I have worked with Mayor Bill O'Brien on a number of issues. On top of the profound impact he has had on the community, I would also like to reflect on the extraordinary journey he has taken.

Affectionately known as Mayor Bill, he was born in Western Australia as Garnet Edward. His journey began in humble beginnings, but it was his character, not his name, that defined him. From a young age, Bill showed resilience and determination to rise above the challenges life threw at him. Growing up in the rough inner suburbs of Melbourne, he developed a strong sense of independence and a dedication to honesty, mateship and loyalty. His early years were marked by a series of diverse experiences, from working as a milkman in the streets of Collingwood and Fitzroy to serving in the Air Force during the Vietnam War. These experiences shaped him into the compassionate and steadfast leader we know today.

His journey has taken him from the inner suburbs of Melbourne to the picturesque town of Kapunda, where he built a life with his beloved wife, Marilyn. Bill started his life in our region as a wine waiter at Weintal in Tanunda and then as a tour guide at Seppeltsfield Winery. Throughout his life, Bill's commitment to community service has been unwavering. His love for sports and fitness is evident in his 65-plus marathons and numerous triathlons, translating into his dedication for promoting a healthy and active lifestyle in our community. As the owner of 'Tri-Sports' in Tanunda, he brought joy to many, especially the young ones, with his genuine care and enthusiasm.

Bill's career in local government began with his role in tourism development at the District Council of Kapunda, which later became Light Regional Council. Despite facing political challenges, Bill's determination and commonsense approach saw him rise to the position of general manager of Central Darling Shire Council in Wilcannia. Under his leadership, the council achieved remarkable success, winning top shire in the state.

Returning to Kapunda, Bill continued to serve the community, eventually being elected as mayor. His tenure as mayor of Light Regional Council has been nothing short of transformative. His leadership has been marked by significant achievements, including, more recently, bringing forward and completing council's 15-year towns paved footpaths and sealed roads upgrade program in just three years; the Gawler River Water Reuse Scheme; the Kapunda Town Square; the major heavy vehicle freight route bypassing Kapunda; and the relocation of the Kapunda Bowling Club to Dutton Park, acknowledging the 80,000 hours of voluntary labour used for the new and outstanding undercover facility.

His focus on sustainability, economic development and tourism has positioned the Light region as one of the most progressive in the state. Mayor Bill's commitment to fairness, equity and community engagement have earned him the respect and admiration of all who know him. His involvement in various community organisations, such as the Eudunda Kapunda Health Advisory Council, Meals on Wheels and the University of the Third Age, showcases his dedication to making a positive difference in the lives of others.

As Mayor Bill steps down, we remember his warmth, genuineness and the personal touch he brought to his role. His legacy will live on in the projects he has championed, the lives he has touched and the community he has helped shape. On behalf of the community, I want to express our deepest gratitude for Bill's years of service, his unwavering dedication and his boundless passion for our community. However, I am confident that his involvement in the community will continue, and we all look forward to seeing the new and exciting ways in which he will contribute to the broader community. I take this opportunity to thank Mayor Bill for everything he has done for the community in the Mid North. We wish him all the best in his future endeavours and hope that he continues to inspire and uplift those around him.

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