Newcastle Council mourns unexpected death of Greens councillor Sinéad Francis-Coan, age 40

A beloved member of local government who has died suddenly, and unexpectedly, will be remembered as a “fierce community campaigner, organiser, friend and colleague.”

Cr Sinead Francis-Coan unexpectedly passed away on Monday after feeling unwell

The sudden, and unexpected death of beloved member of local government has shocked her local community, who will remember the “passionate advocate” as a “fierce community campaigner, organiser, friend and colleague,“

Newcastle City councillor Sinéad Francis-Coan, 40 died unexpectedly in her home on Monday morning after falling ill a few days prior.

Ms Francis-Coan, who moved to Newcastle when she was just six months old, was first elected to local government in October last year, successfully running for The Greens.

On Tuesday, Newcastle’s Mayor Dr Ross Kerridge said Ms Francis-Coan had taken to local government like “a duck to water”.

“I admired her thoughtful contributions and generally positive, honest and optimistic view of the world. She had a charming personality and a great sense of humour,” Cr Kerridge said.

Sinead Francis-Coan died suddenly. Picture: Supplied

Dr Ross Kerridge, Newcastle mayor, said Ms Francis-Coan had taken to local government like ‘a duck to water’. Picture: Supplied

In a statement Newcastle City Council acknowledged Ms Francis-Coan’s unwavering commitment to her role, which saw her carrying out duties in her final days.

“Despite feeling unwell, she continued to perform her duties as a councillor last week, including attending events for Refugee Week and for the night-time economy,’ City of Newcastle chief executive Jeremy Bath said.

The council also confirmed it would fly its flags at half-mast to honour the memory of their beloved representative.

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