Brian Broadby: Former Hobart mayor who bestowed city a Christmas legacy dies aged 80

His time at the top may have been brief, but this believer in community struck out on a limb and started one of Hobart’s most beloved annual traditions. He’s been remembered after dying at 80.

Janet and Brian Broadby. Picture: Supplied

He was mayor of Hobart for just two years but Brian Broadby, who died last month at the age of 80, left a legacy enjoyed by thousands every Christmas.

First elected to the Hobart City Council in 1974, later becoming deputy mayor before holding the top job from 1984–86, Mr Broadby created the annual Christmas pageant and is being remembered for always helping others.

His wife of 60 years, Janet Broadby, said her husband travelled to Adelaide to see first-hand their Christmas pageant.

“Brian was the one who got it going and they even gave him some costumes to bring home to Hobart for the first pageant,” Mrs Broadby said.

“He just wanted people to go along and enjoy themselves.

“Brian was well-liked and honest.

“You name it, he did it. Nothing was ever too much trouble and he believed in everything he did.”

Mr Broadby, who had been unwell in recent years, died on October 24.

At one time Mr Broadby was involved with 40 organisations and committees including the Red Cross at a national level and Keep Australia Beautiful.

Mrs Broadby said her husband, a respected law clerk, was mayor when it was largely an honorary position.

“He wasn’t a lawyer but he lectured at university on probate and conveyancing,” she said.

The couple had three daughters, 12 grandchildren and 24 great grandchildren.

Granddaughter Nicole Holcombe said Mr Broadby was always a “strong and kind man”.

“We learnt a lot from him,” he said.

Former Hobart Mayor Brian Broadby. Picture: Supplied

“He was always on the go and always helping people. He also was happy to give anyone advice anytime.”

Current Hobart Lord Mayor Anna Reynolds said Mr Broadby was “a young and energetic elected member and mayor, known to be an agent of change”.

“He was a very proud Hobartian who supported the development of the city. He was also a keen promoter of the city outside of Tasmania and encouraged people from around Australia to come and live here.

“On behalf of the City of Hobart I offer my deepest sympathies to Brian’s wife and former Lady Mayoress, Janet, and family.”

Former Hobart Mayor Brian Broadby. Picture: Supplied

Although not serving with him on council, former mayors Sue Hickey and Rob Valentine both praised Mr Broadby’s significant and tireless contribution to the community

“I remember Brian as a man committed to helping others in his community,” Ms Hickey said.

“He was very proud of his achievement in starting our first ever Hobart City Christmas Pageant 41 years ago and which continues today.

“He managed to convince many business and community groups to participate and this will be one of his many legacies.

“His wife Janet worked tirelessly to support him.”

Mr Valentine credited Mr Broadby for getting behind the building of the New Town Senior Citizens club.

“He had a lot of connection with the community,” he said.

“Brian went out of his way to provide representation for people.

“I know the senior citizens were appreciative of how he supported their organization and Brian and Janet always turned up to functions over many years to support them,

“He was very consistent in his support for so many organisations.”

Originally published as Brian Broadby: Former Hobart mayor who bestowed city a Christmas legacy dies aged 80