Clr Gregory Schaefer

Clr Gregory Schaefer

It was with great sadness that Councillors learned of the passing of Clr Greg Schaefer at his property “Ellendonan”. Greg was a passionate Councillor since being first elected in December 2021 and represented his community with honesty and integrity. His quick mind and rational in debate added much to better outcomes for our community. He will long be remembered for extensive community work outside Council including involvement in breeding and competing with horses while encouraging and tutoring others who wanted to participate. His volunteer work around the Sports Club, liquor accord, event hospitality and show ground is what small communities are based on.

Greg’s vision forged over many years to bring a new industry to Walcha, in the form of renewable energy, with the aim to make us a more sustainable region is yet to be realised, but his input will inform the path ahead.

Greg gave many hours to the Rural Fire Service including weeks leading his brigade and fighting the 2019 bushfires. This is tiring work, both mentally and physically and gives an insight into calibre of Greg as he backed up every day.  He also became involved in the administration side to make the process smoother. His local knowledge and commitment to fire control will leave a hole that will be difficult to fill.

During Council Meetings his anecdotes and historical snippets were informative and witty and all Councillors will miss these light moments.

As a community, Walcha, will be poorer for the loss of Greg. To his brothers Murray and John and their families Council offers our sincerest sympathies in this trying time.   Vale “Schaef”.

 

Clr Eric Noakes

Mayor of Walcha