In memoriam: Tributes to the high-profile South Australians who died in 2024
From trailblazing politicians to an infamous madam and sports stars to our first supermodel, we lost many South Australians this year. Read the tributes.
SA News
Don't miss out on the headlines from SA News. Followed categories will be added to My News.
As we prepare to enter 2025, we reflect on the South Australians who made an impact on the state but will sadly not be by our sides in the new year.
From inspiring advocates and trailblazing actors to controversial criminals and motivating politicians, we reflect on the loss of the prominent South Aussies we lost in 2024.
JANUARY
January 3: Port Pirie actor Lillian Crombie
The death of Lillian Crombie on January 3, aged 66, left the arts world and Indigenous community heartbroken.
The Pitjantjatjara and Yankunytjatjara icon became a household name after her roles in landmark Australian screen productions including Baz Luhrmann’s 2008 film Australia, The Secret Life of Us and Mystery Road.
She showcased her talents on stage with some of the country’s most prestigious theatre groups, including the State Theatre Company of SA and Sydney Theatre Company.
Her contribution to the arts saw her nab a lifetime achievement award from the Equity Foundation in 2019.
As a member of the Stolen Generation, she was separated from her birth family at a young age and later had a daughter Elaine Crombie, who said she lived “a very full, exciting life”.
“Lily of the Valley danced around the world, acted on stages around the world, graced the big screen, the small screen and has definitely left an imprint in our lives,” Elanie said.
January 7: Businessman Kelvin Trimper
Prominent businessman and urban development manager Kelvin Trimper died suddenly on January 7, aged 69.
Mr Trimper grew up in Renmark and later worked in education, development, business and horticulture, before launching his consulting company in 2012 aptly titled Kelvin Trimper Consulting.
He gave advice to state and local government, not-for-profits and businesses in delivering large scale master planned developments — and received numerous awards for his work.
His love for rose gardening saw him become a renowned figure — helping add a dash of colour to homes around the country.
Gavin Woods, president of the Rose Society of South Australia and vice president of the World Federation of Rose Societies said he was a “giant among rosarians”.
“No single individual can possibly fill Kelvin’s shoes,” he said.
“He has possibly contributed more to the rose growing world than any other individual now or in the past.”
January 26: Australia’s oldest woman Catherina Van Der Linden
Australia’s oldest living person Catherina van der Linden, born van Meegen, died on January 26, aged 111.
Born in the Netherlands before immigrating to Australia in 1955 with her husband and young family, Mrs van der Linden credited her longevity to her active lifestyle.
A true jack of all trades, Mrs van der Linden was a nursing assistant, clerical assistant, did a season of grape picking and volunteered with the Adelaide Hills branch of Meals on Wheels.
She lived in Southern Cross Care’s West Beach Residential Care from 2019 until her death, with a spokeswoman saying she “became a healthy ageing role model for fellow residents”.
When asked on her 111th birthday in August last year about her advice for a long life, she said “be happy with yourself and be content with what life gives you”
And of course, “keep moving, don’t sit still”.
Premier Peter Malinauskas said it was “one of the greatest moments to meet her and hear her story,” before revealing her secret to a long and happy life was “regular gym sessions and regular walks”.
In her last act of kindness, her body was donated to the University of Adelaide Body Donation Program “in the hope of helping to advance medical science through research”.
January 28: Billionaire property developer Lang Walker
Sydney born billionaire property tycoon, Lang Walker, was remembered as man who helped change the face of Adelaide after he died on January 27, aged 78.
Driven by his love and the challenge to create new places for people to live and work, Mr Walker was ranked the 15th-richest Australian, worth $6bn, and employed about 500 people in his company, Walker Corporation.
He was the force behind $3bn Riverlea development at Buckland Park — one of SA’s biggest master planned communities — the redevelopment of Festival Plaza, and the 29-storey One Festival Tower.
His legacy spanned across skylines in Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide and Queensland with 1200 projects, and philanthropical donations including putting $20m into Sydney’s Powerhouse Museum, funding a new medical research building and supporting the Chris O’Brien Lifehouse.
In 2015, he was awarded an Order of Australia for his service to the community.
Businessman and Infrastructure SA chairman Tony Shepherd said he was a “great man, a good friend and a true visionary”.
“He came from humble beginnings and, through sheer hard work and force of will, built an empire.”
FEBRUARY
February 4: Activist Dr Lowitja O’Donoghue
Renowned Aboriginal rights activist, Dr Lowitja O’Donoghue died on February 4, aged 91.
Born at Indulkana on the APY Lands, she overcame discrimination to become the first Aboriginal person to train as a nurse at the Royal Adelaide Hospital where she would work for 10 years, rising to the position of ‘sister charge’.
She was a powerhouse campaigner for the recognition of Aboriginal peoples which was recognised through several awards including Companion of the Order of Australia in 1999 and Australian of the Year in 1984.
In 2022, the Lowitja O’Donoghue Foundation was also established in her honour.
The Yankunytatjara leader and matriarch of her family was remembered as a “formidable leader who was never afraid to listen, speak and act”.
“She was admired and respected universally, sought after to meet with dignitaries of the highest standing from all over the world, while being equally as loved in her own nation,” her family told The Advertiser.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese described her as “a figure of grace, moral clarity, and extraordinary inner strength”.
“Lowitja O’Donoghue was one of the most remarkable leaders this country has ever known,” he said.
February 19: Rundle Mall’s dancing man Lionel Willis
As he danced through the streets of Adelaide, Lionel Willis made his way into the hearts of those who witnessed his magical spirit before he died on February 19, aged 84, after a short cancer battle.
His obvious love of dancing never failed to attract the attention and smiles of locals, interstate and overseas visitors — growing to become a household name by making Rundle Mall his home away from home.
A valued client of Rundle Mall’s Knightsman Bespoke Tailors, the store said it was a “huge honour” to commission a vibrant pink suit for Mr Willis before his death.
“To make something so personal for someone who sparks so much joy is something that tailors dream of,” a store spokesperson said.
February 22: Top Adelaide surgeon Tim Proudman
A father and husband, Dr Tim Proudman was diagnosed with glioblastoma — a deadly brain tumour — in November 2021 and sadly died at age 62.
The renowned Adelaide plastic surgeon dedicated his life to helping others, with his wife remembering how he lived “life to the fullest until near the end”.
Dr Proudman was awarded a Member of the Order of Australia in 2023 for his work in Australia and overseas, including sharing his knowledge to remote Indigenous communities in the Northern Territory and an eight-year volunteering stint in Bhutan.
He made his mark across multiple sites including the Burnside Hospital, the Women’s and Children’s Hospital and Calvary Wakefield’s Surgicentre, became a board member on the Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery at the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons, and headed the Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Unit at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital.
MARCH
March 7: Port Adelaide hard man David Grave Danger Granger
Dubbed as one of SA football’s most controversial figures, David Granger also known as “Grave Danger” died aged 69 after a gruelling cancer battle.
He started his football career in Victoria playing under-19s for St Kilda before playing 103 games and kicked 92 goals for Port Adelaide between 1975 to 1982.
The Port Adelaide hard man was a key member of Port’s 1977 and 1981 premiership teams and possessed vice-like hands as a key forward, despite measuring a modest 188cm, before his career wrapped up in 1982.
Port SANFL premiership player Tim Ginever described him as an “amazing footballer’ with incredible hands.
“He was only 6 foot, 2 inches in the old terms but he always played a key position and played above his height,” Ginever told FIVEaa.
“He was amazing and also an unselfish footballer, that’s what I loved about him, he was always prepared to give the ball off to teammates.”
March 9: Model Tanya Powell
Adelaide’s first lady of modelling, Tanya Powell, sadly died after a long battle with ovarian cancer on March 9, aged 72.
The icon created the renowned Tanya Powell Model Agency, which helped launch the careers of many famous faces in Australia.
Ms Powell had a sharp eye for remembering every young person she taught grooming, deportment and etiquette, training more than 20,000 teenagers and young adults.
She eventually retired and sold the agency in 2015 after four decades in the business.
The model was a Channel 9 weather presenter, a jazz ballet teacher in the 1970s and produced and directed the annual National Elders Wool Fashion Awards in the mid-1990s.
Former Channel 7 weather presenter Cherylee Harris said she was a “true lady, a loyal friend and a wonderful wife to Jack and mother to her son Luke”.
“Tanya’s impact will continue to be felt for generations to come as her spirit of resilience, determination and empowerment lives on in all those who were fortunate enough to know her.”
March 17: Brothel owner Stormy Summers
Dying just three days short of her 78th birthday on March 17, Stormy Summers became one of Australia’s most famous madams.
She migrated to Australia from Holland in 1952 as a toddler, with her family settling in Bathurst, NSW.
She left school at 16 and travelled to New Zealand where she began dancing – later working in Sydney, stripping and dancing on Kings Cross.
The Adelaide icon was remembered as a controversial brothel owner with close bikie and underworld links.
In 2000, her colourful character saw her running for Lord Mayor as part of her mission to legalise prostitution and set up shelters for homeless children.
Adelaide born actor Benedict Samuel was working on a documentary about her life, and said
“I just thought it was a story about a woman who came at the world in a completely different way to most people.”
“She was ahead of her time when it came to sex workers’ rights,” Mr Samuel said.
“She cared for and helped so many people. Until the end of her life, she made an effort to help as many people as she possibly could, despite her own struggles.
“For someone who was often painted in a bad light, she didn’t go about shouting her good deeds, she was inspirational.”
March 19: Former Adelaide Deputy Lord Mayor David Plumridge
Deputy Lord Mayor David Plumridge succumbed to a decade-long illness at age 91, on March 19.
The former architect and deputy lord mayor of Adelaide was remembered as a “giant among councillors”, ardent defender of the parklands and a powerhouse who served as city councillor for two terms between 2007 and 2014.
His career spanned local governments including eight years as Salisbury Mayor, and president of both the state and national Local Government Association.
In 1993, he received the Order of Australia for his work in government.
His daughter Wendy Hollands told The Advertiser her father would be remembered as a “very strong man”.
“He was a very good family man and was very good at keeping my sister and I at bay,” she said.
March 22: 7News Adelaide cameraman Rob Brown
Veteran television news cameraman Rob Brown was described as a giant of his time and a “true legend” of the industry, following his death on March 20 after a short illness at the age of 62.
With more than three decades in television under his belt — including over 20 years with Channel 7 — Mr Brown covered some of the world’s biggest news stories around the world.
Colleagues at Seven described him as a “world class” cameraman and an incredible friend to everyone.
Adelaide’s former news director, Chris Salter said he was a “indestructible, infallible warrior who was the heart and soul of our network”.
“From being detained by Hezbollah to dodging bullets in Afghanistan and countless Olympics — RB had done it all,” Mr Salter said.
“He wasn’t just one of Australia’s best camos — he was world class. And he was Adelaide’s own. He was a true legend of the industry.”
March 27: SA Basketballer Greg Olbrich
The former Adelaide Giants and Southern Tigers player, Greg Olbrich’s death sent shockwaves across the state’s basketball community, after he suffered a cardiac arrest, aged 51.
Described as a gentle giant, Mr Olbrich was co-crowned the 1995 Woollacott medallist for being the Most Valuable Player in the state league competition.
Adelaide 36ers NBL coach and friend Scott Ninnis remembered him as a “big bear” who was a “warm hearted, good natured, and just a fair dinkum guy who was great to be around”.
Southern Tigers Basketball Association, where Olbrich was an esteemed life member, remembered him as a “basketball great, a Woollacott medallist, a loving and committed husband, father and friend”.
“Greg was not only a dedicated member of our association but also a cherished friend to many of us,” President Gavin Miller wrote in a statement.
His son, Lachlan now carries the family’s basketball legacy, as a promising player with the Illawarra Hawks.
APRIL
April 9: Advertiser photographer Christopher Gerard Mangan
Christopher Gerard Mangan, affectionately known as “Mango”, was a celebrated photographer whose 40-year career in newspapers left an indelible mark.
He died at 68 on April 9 after a short illness.
Mangan captured many subjects, from politics to royal visits, always with an eye for memorable moments.
He was known for his ability to navigate all levels of society with ease, effortlessly finding stories and images that others missed.
A beloved figure, Mangan was remembered fondly at a “standing-room-only” funeral, reflecting the countless lives he touched throughout his career.
MAY
May 2: Footy coach Lee Whitehorn
Lee Whitehorn, a devoted father of two and beloved footy coach, defied the odds after being diagnosed with severe brain cancer and given just 14 months to live.
He fought bravely for three years before his death at 47 on May 2.
His passion for football was honoured with a celebration at the Port Districts Football Club oval in Largs Bay.
Loved by many, Mr Whitehorn’s legacy lives on through heartfelt tributes. In a touching gesture, his wife Laura asked friends to contribute stories and photos, creating a scrapbook to celebrate his life and the memories he left behind.
JUNE
June 10: Former SA Premier Steele Hall
Steele Hall, former South Australian Liberal Premier, was remembered as a leader of “conviction and courage” at his state memorial service, held earlier this year at the Adelaide Festival Centre.
Mr Hall, who died on June 10 at 95, was celebrated as a “legend of South Australian politics”.
Serving as premier from 1968 to 1970 and later as a senator and federal MP, he was known for his commitment to doing what was right, even when difficult.
Mr Hall was instrumental in selecting the site for the Adelaide Festival Centre, a lasting symbol of progress he helped create.
June 10: SA political pioneer Jennifer Cashmore
Jennifer Cashmore, a pioneering figure in South Australian politics, died aged 86 on June 10.
A courageous voice for women’s equality, she spent 12 of her 17 years in parliament as the sole woman representing her party.
Known as the “Green Conscience” of the Liberal Party, she was an outspoken advocate for environmental protection and renewable energy.
As shadow treasurer, she raised alarms about the State Bank’s financial troubles before its collapse.
Elected in 1977, she became the second woman appointed to the state cabinet in 1979, serving as Health and Tourism Minister.
June 14: Port Lincoln millionaire businessman Peter Teakle
Peter Teakle, a wealthy businessman from Port Lincoln, died at 72 on June 14 and was remembered for his generosity and big heart.
His son Ben described him as a “hardworking family man” with a passion for community and business.
Heir to a SA printing empire, Mr Teakle was known for his support of Eyre Peninsula and his contributions to various business and community projects.
A viticulturist, fisherman, and philanthropist, he supported sailing clubs, the RFDS, and Variety — the Children’s Charity.
June 15: Wild Child Stylelab founder Carol Foord
Carol Foord, the visionary founder of Wild Child Stylelab and Toffs, died at 72 on June 15 after a battle with cancer.
A trailblazer in Adelaide’s fashion scene, Foord opened Wild Child in 1990, becoming one of the city’s longest-running independent boutiques.
She also launched Toffs in 1978 and expanded her influence into furniture retail with Church Studios and Studio Barcelona.
Known for her creativity and leadership, Foord dedicated her life to her businesses, shaping them into lasting institutions.
Her legacy of innovation in both fashion and furniture will continue to inspire, and her presence will be deeply missed.
June 16: Farmer Tim Vince, dad of Crow Bernie Vince
Tim Vince, a beloved Yorke Peninsula farmer and father of former Adelaide Crows player and Triple M radio host Bernie Vince, died at 65 on June 16.
Mr Vince was remembered as a “tough, great man” by his family and friends, with heartfelt tributes pouring in from across the community.
He was a former premiership player and captain for the Stansbury Football Club and a dedicated volunteer for various local clubs.
His larger-than-life personality and warmth left a lasting impact on all who knew him.
The Dalrymple Hotel described him as a charismatic raconteur whose presence will be deeply missed.
June 19: Tuna farming pioneer Ann Lukin, mum of Olympian Dean Lukin
Ann Lukin, a beloved Port Lincoln tuna farming pioneer and mother of Olympic gold medallist Dean Lukin, died unexpectedly aged 84 on June 19.
Along with her late husband Dinko, she was credited with pioneering tuna farming on the Eyre Peninsula, helping to establish a key industry in the region.
Her grandson, Dean Lukin Jr, praised her as an “amazing individual” who was “the most honourable, ethical, loving person” he had ever known.
He reflected on her role in keeping the family together through challenges, noting that her influence and love will never be replaced.
June 26: Bicycle Bandit Kym Allen Parsons
Kym Allen Parsons, known as the “Bicycle Bandit,” died on June 26 aged 73 after ending his life using a SA Health-approved voluntary assisted dying kit.
Parsons, infamous for a crime spree that netted over $300,000, was sentenced to 35 years for armed robbery and firearms offences but served only a brief time in custody due to his terminal cancer diagnosis.
He died in a palliative care facility near Flinders Medical Centre, just days after his sentencing.
His death, following a controversial plea deal and swift court ruling, sparked debate over the conduct of his case.
JULY
July 1: Former Mitsubishi boss Tom Phillips
Tom Phillips AM, former Mitsubishi Australia chief executive, died on July 1 aged 78.
A key figure in SA’s business community, Mr Phillips fought to save the company’s Adelaide factories during a challenging period from 2000 to 2005.
He championed the Mitsubishi 380 model as a potential lifeline, but the decline of the local car industry ultimately led to factory closures.
Remembered for his integrity and dedication to workers, Mr Phillips was highly respected by colleagues and employees alike.
He was appointed to the Order of Australia in 2007 for his services to the car industry and workplace safety.
July 5: Infrastructure leader Angela Gerace
Angela Gerace, leader at the Department for Infrastructure and Transport, died on July 5 aged 45 after a brief battle with blood cancer.
Diagnosed with Acute Myeloid Leukemia in April, just months after her father’s death, Ms Gerace fought fiercely but tragically succumbed to an infection 10 weeks later.
Remembered as “brave, fearless, and irreplaceable,” she was a respected figure in politics and departmental processes, rising to deputy director after 20 years.
A mentor and role model, Ms Gerace was admired for her expertise and ability to provide trusted, consistent advice, even as governments changed.
July 8: TWU stalwart Ian Smith
Ian Smith, former Transport Workers Union (TWU) SA/NT branch secretary, died on July 8 aged 63, after a battle with cancer.
A prominent figure in the union movement, Mr Smith dedicated 30 years to advocating for transport workers.
Starting as a driver at TNT in 1994, he played a key role in significant pay negotiations, including the first national enterprise agreement at TNT.
Mr Smith’s leadership led to crucial victories, including challenging Qantas over illegal outsourcing.
His contributions to workers’ rights and his passion for the union will be remembered by his colleagues, friends, and family, as his legacy lives on.
SEPTEMBER
September 7: Former Australian Democrats Senator and environmentalist Dr John Coulter
Dr John Coulter, former Australian Democrats senator and pioneering environmentalist, died on September 7 aged 93 after battling Vexas Syndrome.
Serving as a senator for eight years, including two as a leader, Dr Coulter was known for his tireless advocacy for environmental issues and his bold political stance.
A former GP and Adelaide Hills identity, he was described as an “environmental intellectual giant” with immense conviction.
His scientific background led to groundbreaking legislation on topics such as cloning ethics and gene patenting.
Remembered as a man ahead of his time, Dr Coulter’s legacy continues to inspire.
September 8: Justice Malcolm Blue
Justice Malcolm Blue KC, a respected and beloved figure in South Australia’s legal community, tragically died on September 8 aged 70, following a farming accident just three weeks into his retirement.
After a distinguished 47-year career, including service on the state’s Supreme Court, Justice Blue was enjoying time at his Willunga vineyard when the accident occurred.
Described as kind, brilliant, and supportive, he was cherished by his family, colleagues, and friends.
Justice Blue’s passing leaves a profound impact, and he will be deeply missed by his family, including his partner Angela and daughters Charlotte, Victoria, and Alex.
September 18: Former NBL player Jason Joynes
Jason Joynes, former NBL star and Adelaide coach, died on September 18 aged only 54 after a battle with cancer.
Known as a “gentle giant,” Joynes was deeply loved by his family, including his wife Michelle and three children, Eliza, Isaac, and Scarlett.
His NBL career began in 1989 with the Westside Melbourne Saints, later playing for the Newcastle Falcons and Geelong Supercats, before joining the Mount Gambier Pioneers for a championship win.
Beyond playing, Joynes remained connected to basketball through coaching and as vice president of the Woodville Warriors, leaving a lasting impact on the community.
September 23: South Australian Equal Opportunity trailblazer Mary Beasley
Mary Beasley, South Australia’s first Commissioner for Equal Opportunity and first female state ombudsman, died peacefully on September 23, aged 87.
A trailblazer for women in leadership, Beasley also made history as the first woman on Qantas’s board and the Public Service Board.
Deputy Premier Susan Close praised Beasley’s strength and tenacity in breaking barriers for women.
Throughout her career, she held influential roles in government, the Australian Dance Theatre, and Port Adelaide’s Women in Power group.
Beasley was made a Member of the Order of Australia in 2004 for her outstanding service to the community.
September 27: Dry Cleaning founder Karl Chehade
Khalil “Karl” Chehade, founder of KC Dry Cleaning, died on September 27 aged 91, leaving behind a legacy of entrepreneurial success.
Immigrating from Lebanon in 1951, Mr Chehade’s journey from humble beginnings, using a horse and cart to deliver produce, to creating one of SA’s most recognised brands, epitomises the Australian dream.
Starting his dry cleaning business in 1957, he grew it into a statewide operation
A man of faith, Mr Chehade’s generosity extended to both family and community.
After handing the business to his son in 1994, he focused on his olive farm and continued to support his heritage.
OCTOBER
October 6: Electric Circus founder Paul Glen
Paul Glen, founder of Electric Circus, died on October 6 at 49, leaving a significant mark on Adelaide’s night-life.
A key figure in the city’s clubbing scene, Mr Glen co-owned Electric Circus, Mr Kim’s, Rocket Bar, and Rooftop, creating a popular four-level venue in the CBD.
Starting as a DJ in Edinburgh in 1994, he migrated to Australia in 2000 and opened a record store, which led to his involvement in Adelaide’s night-life.
Mr Glen also contributed to growing the city’s music festival scene, including Stereosonic and Parklife. His legacy as a nightclub legend and music advocate will be long remembered.
October 13: Christies Beach local Frank ‘T-Bone’ Tabone
Frank “T-bone” Tabone, a beloved Christies Beach local, died on October 13 aged 60 after a sudden heart attack.
Known for his yellow Holden Monaro, Mr Tabone was the heart and soul of his community.
A frequent visitor to the Sandbar, he was always ready for a chat and a laugh, embodying the essence of Christies Beach.
Described as a “legend” and “icon,” he was cherished by family, friends, and locals.
His warmth, loyalty, and love of life will be remembered by all who knew him.
October 17: Beloved northern suburbs man Len Doof
Len Doof, a beloved figure in Adelaide’s northern suburbs, died on October 17.
For decades, he brought the magic of Christmas to life with his dazzling festive lights display, a tradition that delighted generations of families.
Known for his creative spirit, Mr Doof spent countless hours crafting intricate light displays, often working late into the night.
He was not only admired for his skill but for the joy he spread, especially to children who gathered to witness the spectacle.
Mr Doof’s family and friends remember him for his warmth, generosity, and his dedication to creating Christmas magic for all.
NOVEMBER
November: Local theatre legend Roz Hervey
Roz Hervey, a beloved South Australian theatre legend, died in November after using the state’s voluntary assisted dying laws following a terminal diagnosis of Motor Neurone Disease (MND).
The mother of Hollywood actor Tilda Cobham-Hervey, Hervey chose to end her life with dignity, surrounded by family, saying she wanted to “leave the party while it’s still going”.
A former dancer, director, and producer, she was known for her immense contribution to the arts and her work with Theatre Republic and Restless Dance Theatre.
Hervey’s colleagues remember her as generous, courageous, and full of joy, leaving an indelible mark on the arts community.
November 16: Adelaide Central Market legend Con Savvas
Con Savvas, a beloved Adelaide Central Market legend, died on November 16 aged 90.
For 65 years, he was a familiar face at the market, running Con’s Fine Food alongside his three brothers since 1959.
Mr Savvas’s warmth, generosity, and passion for fine foods left a lasting impact on the community.
His legacy continues through his sons Ross, Anthony, and Alex, as well as his daughter-in-law and granddaughter.
Mr Savvas was also deeply involved in the Greek Orthodox community.
Remembered fondly by many, he was cherished not only as a business icon but as a loving father, grandfather, and husband.
November 26: Former Murray Bridge Mayor Brenton Lewis
Brenton Lewis, former Murray Bridge Mayor, died on November 26 aged 77, following a five-year battle with cancer.
Known as a positive force in the community, Mr Lewis served as mayor for eight years, stepping down in 2022 due to ill health.
A mentor and beloved figure, he was admired for his honesty, calm demeanour, and commitment to progress.
Mr Lewis championed the Murray Bridge Racing Club and worked tirelessly to foster growth in the region.
His motto, “proud, safe, progressive,” encapsulated his vision for the town, making locals proud to call Murray Bridge home.
DECEMBER
December 6: Fashion icon Maggie Tabberer
Maggie Tabberer, Australian fashion icon and TV personality, died on December 6 at 87.
A trailblazer in fashion, she was known for her towering presence, distinctive style, and eponymous fashion label, ‘Maggie T.’
Her career spanned decades, with roles as a model, TV host, fashion editor, and businesswoman.
She won two Gold Logies for her chat show ‘Maggie’ and later co-hosted ‘The Home Show’.
Tabberer’s legacy of elegance and generosity, especially through her support for charities like Ted’s Wayside Chapel, leaves an indelible mark.
She is survived by her daughters, Amanda and Brooke.