Former Maroochy Shire councillor Hermann Schwabe dies age 83 after battle with dementia
A daughter has paid tribute to a former Sunshine Coast councillor and beloved family man who had a passion for the environment after his passing following a long battle with dementia.
Sunshine Coast
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A “passionate environmentalist” has been remembered for his vision, strength and dedication after a long-time battle with dementia.
Cornelia Schwabe said her father Hermann Schwabe was a councillor for Maroochy Shire Council between 1982 and 2004, an advocate for the Sunshine Coast hinterland and family man.
Mr Schwabe died at the age of 83 on August 7 at Sunshine Coast Hospital after several years of dementia following a stroke in 2021.
Ms Schwabe described him as a “determined and passionate environmentalist” who acknowledged the need to balance development and protection of coastal habitats for sustainability.
“He was a man of supreme vision, which he paired successfully with practical solutions and avenues to achieve this vision,” she said.
As a “community-minded” politician, Mr Schwabe ensured he was available to residents of his division even to the extent of handing out his private phone number.
His leadership also transformed Kenilworth into its current social hub by installing a library, community pool and a redeveloped Kenilworth Park which Mr Schwabe often spoke fondly of, Ms Schwabe said.
Her father spared no effort in preserving land and green corridors within developments, which he was recognised for within the community.
“He played a key role in limiting the heights and locations of high rise buildings on the Coast, and in protecting the Maroochy River floodplain form overdevelopment,” she said.
“His choices and integrity did not always lead to his popularity, but it absolutely has helped to shape the Sunshine Coast in terms of developments, lifestyle and environment.”
Ms Schwabe said he balanced his life as a family man and politician, often reading minutes at 4am by the kitchen table and taking his family to public functions on weekends.
In his free time, he would take his children bushwalking or riding the Maroochy River on their tinnie as he “revelled” in the Sunshine Coast’s beauty.
“Being a councillor wasn’t easy for him, but his strength in focusing on what was important and not giving up when he believed in something are qualities that will continue to inspire me throughout my life,” Ms Schwabe said.
After his time at council, Mr Schwabe continued to advocate for the Sunshine Coast hinterland, attend meetings and events and liaised with current council members for the “betterment” of the Sunshine Coast.
Ms Schwabe and her sister Heidi will organise a public memorial to honour their father.
Anyone who wishes to attend, share memories or gain more information can contact Ms Schwabe at rememberinghermann@gmail.com.
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