NORTHERN Grampians Shire Council has paid tribute to one of Stawell's long serving community volunteers and former mayor, Don Webb.
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Mr Webb, who passed away in late November, was honoured by the new mayor, Cr Murray Emerson.
"I have one duty to fulfil in my new position as mayor and it's in regard to a very long standing stalwart of the Northern Grampians Shire," Cr Emerson said.
"Don Webb was born in Stawell at the Sister Davies Hospital and together with his wife of almost 60 years, Ruby, was well known and loved for his contribution to the community, whether it be through work with the local Lions Club, Men's Probus Club, Stawell and District Residents Association, or the Stawell Bowling Club.
"Don worked at Australia Post in Stawell for 44 years and at the age of 40, was elected to the Stawell City Council and later on became mayor of the Stawell Council.
"He was in the mayor's role in 1981 when the Stawell Gold Mines restarted its exploration and he turned the first sod of dirt at the mine opening.
"Don also oversaw the building of what is now known as the Stawell Leisure Complex, including the indoor pool and also oversaw the transition of Main Street into the Gold Reef Mall.
"Don was a Justice of the Peace for 33 years, was on the Stawell Harness Racing Club committee for 20 years and both he and Ruby are life members of Probus.
"The pair were presidents of the men's and ladies Probus clubs at the same time and together were involved with the Grampians Community Car program, an unfunded not for profit service which uses volunteer car drivers to provide community transport solutions for people living in Stawell and the surrounding areas.
"Don received an Order of Australia Medal in 2004 for his contribution to Local Government in the Grampians region. In 2012, he received a senior achievement award at Government House.
"Don was also chair of the Northern Grampians Shire Council audit committee for many years, only retiring from this role in the last 12 months.
"He was a true civic leader and will be remembered for his energy, dedication, compassion and love for this community. Vale Don Webb."
Following the address from the mayor, all residents and councillors were asked to observe two minutes silence in memory of Mr Webb and his outstanding contribution to Stawell.
