Thursday, 6 February 2025

 Mathew HILAKARI (Point Cook) (10:33): Vale, Bob Fairclough. Bob was a former Wyndham mayor and community leader, and he died last Thursday, 30 January. Bob loved his community, and I recall meeting him soon after being appointed as the Labor candidate for Point Cook. He told me about his first election to council. He knocked every door of the community that he sought to represent. He served 11 years on council. He was elected at that election, and to be frank, Bob never stopped doorknocking. He knocked everybody’s door. He wanted more for the community always. That is why he was such a big advocate – that is why he wanted everyone who was multicultural in our community to be included. He loved particularly our multicultural community. I want to acknowledge Cr Larry Zhao, who had such a strong bond with Bob, who was a real mentor to him.

Bob emigrated from New Zealand in 1984 and was an academic at Victoria University. He never stopped loving education and advocating for it. He was involved in so many organisations: Rotary, Point Cook Action Group, the Point Cook Cricket Club and Werribee diabetes support.

Bob, I will miss seeing you in our community – always organising, always thinking about the next thing. My condolences to Denise, your son, the broader family and the community that will miss you. Point Cook is poorer for your passing and richer for you being there. Vale, Bob Fairclough.