Les Lauder - Brave Heart of Fremantle

Donna Haney’s Special Meeting of Council was one of the most impressive and awe inspiring experiences I have ever witnessed. This woman epitomized the term ‘Quiet Achiever’. She doesn’t appear to have much to say but, she listens with her heart and brilliant mind. When she took the floor last Tuesday night, she articulated extraordinary insight, compassion and common sense solutions.

The councillors who showed up at the meeting had one thing in common; they would not be intimidated and they were there to fix a wrong. The fact that Mayor Tagliaferri did not attend the meeting spoke volumes and leaves us all wondering about his motives and long list of platitudes. Ironically, the meeting proved to run more professionally under the leadership of Deputy Mayor John Dowson.

It was clear that Georgie Adeane, Bill Massie, Shirley Mackay, and Alice King had done their homework and had the interest of the people and a strong determination for a fair and ethical outcome; regardless of political opposition. This was also evident of the others who attended; all who came voluntarily, at short nice and some sacrificing other obligations.

Cr Fittock was the only councillor who appeared indifferent and distracted and whose summary didn’t seem to make much sense.

If ever there was a ‘Brave Heart,’ none would measure up to Cr Les Lauder. After years of sarcastic remarks, condescending looks and seemingly covert opposition, he stood proud and passionate to the very end. His fight for fair-play and honestly has been long but his tenacity and fierce determination to get things right for Fremantle and its people is phenomenal.

Respect for politics, politicians and public servants is generally low. The people of Fremantle are fortunate to have a group of councillors who really care and are willing to do the hard yards.

Perhaps it is a good thing that the jaded Mayor is ready to move on; time leave Freo in the hands of the people who still have fire in their bellies and real reasons for being there.