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Ex-Randwick Council mayor John Buchanan has died

FORMER Randwick mayor John Buchanan passed away this week.

John Buchanan with his wife Del
John Buchanan with his wife Del

FORMER Randwick mayor John Buchanan passed away on Wednesday.

Mr Buchanan was elected to the council in 1980 and remained until 2000.

He served two terms as mayor in 1983-1984 and again from 1991-1992.

Friend and current Randwick Greens councillor Murray Matson described him as a “crusading political force” who had made his mark on the council.

“He tried to reform Randwick City Council and give residents a voice at a time when the council was out of touch with the people,” Mr Matson said.

“At around the time of the ICAC report into Randwick (published in February 1995) John was incorruptible. He was a man of great integrity and he ensured the lessons were learnt from that ICAC investigation.”

John Buchanan, far right, and his wife Del, far left, continued to campaign for the area long after he left the council. He is pictured in 2010 collecting signatures against a development proposal in Coogee.
John Buchanan, far right, and his wife Del, far left, continued to campaign for the area long after he left the council. He is pictured in 2010 collecting signatures against a development proposal in Coogee.

Randwick Council described him as a “passionate voice for his community”.

Mayor Lindsay Shurey said she was saddened to hear of his passing.

“John was known for his strong defence of the community and the dignity with which he always conducted himself,” Councillor Shurey said.

“I was sad to learn Randwick has lost such a proud and vocal champion. Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences are with John’s family.”

Mr Buchanan was an independent councillor for the north ward. He worked closely with precinct committees and was particularly outspoken on planning issues.

Current mayor Lindsay Shurey and councillor Murray Matson both paid tribute to John. Picture: John Appleyard
Current mayor Lindsay Shurey and councillor Murray Matson both paid tribute to John. Picture: John Appleyard

“My personal memory of him will be standing on (former councillor) Marjorie Whitehead’s roof after a hailstorm and nailing down tarps,” Mr Matson said. “He was a wonderful guy who would always help out.”

He leaves behind his wife, Del.

Mr Buchanan’s funeral will be held on Tuesday, June 26, at St Anthony of Padua Church, Arden St, Clovelly, at 10am.

To leave your tribute to Mr Buchanan email ben.james@news.com.au.

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Original URL: https://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/newslocal/southern-courier/exrandwick-council-mayor-john-buchanan-has-died/news-story/2542f07639ee17ac297d4833d8283669