Glenorchy alderman Jan Dunsby remembered for selfless devotion to helping others

A Glenorchy alderman, who died this week, devoted her life to volunteering and improving people’s lives. Read the tributes to a remarkable woman.

Kristie Johnston, left, with Jan Dunsby and Matt Stevenson speaking to the media on Gutwein's decision to introduce legislation to sack the council. Picture: SAM ROSEWARNE.

Glenorchy alderman Jan Dunsby is being remembered as “one of a kind” who selflessly devoted her life to helping and advocating for others, especially everyday battlers.

Ms Dunsby, who was in her third term on council, died from cancer on Tuesday.

Her death comes just weeks after fellow alderman and former Labor MP Harry Quick also died from cancer.

Glenorchy mayor Sue Hickey said many people came to know Ms Dunsby through her countless volunteering roles and Glenorchy was “poorer for her passing”.

“Her drive to help others epitomised community spirit, and there are many people in our community whose day was made that much better for Jan’s help and assistance,” she said.

“Jan was a fierce champion for those in community doing it tough and for many causes including disability rights, children’s education and community safety.

“The way she stood up for her community and the things she believed in was something to be admired.

“She never let anything get in her way.

“She had a resolve, strength of character and remarkable kindness that earned her respect not only around the council table but throughout the community.”

Glenorchy City Alderman Jan Dunsby at Berriedale. Picture: Chris Kidd

Just days before her death, Ms Dunsby, a one-eyed Collingwood supporter, was posting on social media about a function in Hobart on Saturday involving player Brayden Maynard.

Ms Hickey said Ms Dunsby’s face would light up talking about Collingwood, the Glenorchy Football Club and her family.

Former mayor Kristie Johnston, who stood with Ms Dunsby in 2014, said she was a “grassroots local member” who cared deeply about her community.

“She was very compassionate, fully of empathy, she really just wanted to commit her life to doing more for her community,” she said.

“Jan cared about the individual stories of members in the community and she will be really missed on council.

“She put others before herself time and time again.”

Former mayor Bec Thomas described Ms Dunsby as “an extraordinary woman, a community champion and a loyal friend”.

“She was a strong advocate for people with a disability and the everyday battler – a quiet achiever who selflessly devoted so much of her life to our community and asked for nothing in return.

“She was truly one of a kind and will be very sadly missed by many.”

Ben Johnston, former president of the Hobart Northern Suburbs Rail Action Group, said Ms Dunsby was a “tireless advocate” and “passionate” office bearer in the group because she “recognised the numerous benefits for her beloved community”.

“Jan was a dear friend and despite her own health challenges was always helping others. She will be greatly missed,” he said.

Hobart Private General Manager Georgia Banks, said: “Jan was a very engaged and active consumer consultant at Hobart Private Hospital who played an important role in improving our patient experience.”

A JP, Ms Dunsby was involved in numerous groups including Claremont College Association, Neighbourhood Watch Tasmania, ParaQuad Tasmania Inc and Glenorchy Citizens of the Year.