Beau Cowan resigns from Onkaparinga Council after cancer diagnosis
Councillor Beau Cowan has resigned as an Onkaparinga councillor as he battles cancer.
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Onkaparinga councillor Beau Cowan has resigned, just weeks after announcing he was battling cancer.
Last month, Mr Cowan revealed numerous tumours had been found on his thyroid and lymph nodes.
At the time, he apologised for not being present in his role but said he endeavoured to continue his work for the community.
However in a public statement posted to Facebook last week, Mr Cowan said he had resigned from the council.
“This is due to unexpected changes to my personal circumstance that I feel have impacted my ability to fulfil the role to a high standard,” he said.
“I would like to thank the organisation, my fellow elected members, and the community for their ongoing support and understanding.”
Mr Cowan was elected as a Mid Coast Ward councillor in 2018.
At the time, he told The Messenger he was inspired to run for council after attending council meetings as a resident.
“I felt I could make a positive impact and be a part of the solution residents were looking for,” he said.
Mr Cowan’s resignation will trigger a by-election in coming months.
Onkaparinga Mayor Erin Thompson said the council had contacted the State Electoral Commission for advice on when the by-election could take place.
“Beau was one of the new councillors elected in 2018 and he brought with him new ideas and a passion to make real change in our city,” Ms Thompson said.
“We know this would have been an incredibly tough decision for Beau so, on behalf of the council, I’d like to thank him for his contribution to our communities.
“We wish him and his family all the best for the future.”
Mr Cowan was contacted for comment.