George Davidson OAM: Tributes flow after death of former Tweed Shire Council deputy mayor

A former deputy mayor of the Tweed, who has died in Queensland, has been remembered for his dedication to the region. Here’s what his colleagues had to say.

George Davidson OAM has been remembered for his “instrumental” work in the Tweed as a councillor and deputy mayor.

Tributes are pouring in for a former Tweed Shire councillor and deputy mayor, who has been remembered as a dedicated public servant who gave much to the community.

George Davidson OAM died in Brisbane recently, where he has lived in recent years following 16 years of community involvement in the Tweed. He was 85-years-old.

Mr Davidson has been described as a passionate advocate for the Tweed.

George Davidson OAM

Veteran councillor Warren Polglase, who remains with the council, served with Mr Davidson.

“George was very professional in his dealings in local government, reliable and sincere, with a good sense of humour,” he said.

“He supported growth and opportunities at that time.

“He also strongly lobbied for improvements to Les Burger Field at Bogangar and was instrumental in its rejuvenation and the facility we see there today.”

Tweed Shire councillor Warren Polglase.

Former Tweed Shire Council general manager Mike Rayner – Director of Engineering during Mr Davidson’s time on the council – said Mr Davidson was committed to the role.

“George was a great supporter of the Council organisation,” he said.

“His OAM was fitting public recognition of the contribution he made to community life in the Tweed.”

Mr Davidson received the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) in the General Division in 2010 for his service to the Tweed with local government, sporting and veterans’ organisations.

At the time, speaking to the Tweed Daily News, Mr Davidson said it brought a tear to his eye when he was named on the Australia Day Honours List.

Mr Davidson, then aged 71, said the honour was something he never envisioned for himself.

“I’m so grateful to be receiving this wonderful award,” he said.

“It brought a tear to my eye when I opened the letter from the Governor-General.

“This is something I never thought would happen to me. I never even won a sporting award when I was growing up — I’m still in shock over it.”

Mr Davidson served as councillor from 1999-2004 – the last three years as deputy mayor.

He was president of Cabarita Beach/Bogangar Residents’ Association from 1997-1999 and chairman of the Cabarita Beach Sports Club for a number of years in the ‘90s.

Mr Davidson’s funeral will be held at Tweed Valley Lawn Chapel, Eviron Rd, Eviron on May 29.