Tributes continue to pour in for late former Maitland councillor and long time business operator Bob Geoghegan.
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Mayor Loretta Baker and Member for Maitland Jenny Aitchison both shared their thoughts on Mr Groghegan, Cr Baker describing him as highly respected and Ms Aitchison as generous and passionate.
Mr Geoghegan, 73, died this week after a 12-month battle with cancer. He was best known for his role as owner/operator of the Hit n Dip Sports Centre at Green Hills and the many terms he served on Maitland City Council - including a stint as acting mayor. Mr Geoghegan was also know for his active role in the arts and Maitland's home for the aged Benhome.
He will be farewelled at midday, Monday during a service in Maitland Town Hall.
His wife Robyn, said her husband's passing was very sad but he is now at peace. "It's been a long battle and he fought long and hard. He just drifted off. It was a blessing," she said. "Bob was a very passionate and committed man and wanted to make a difference for Maitland," she said.
Born and bred in Sydney, Mr Geoghegan went to St Joseph's College Hunter's Hill and studied mechanical engineering at university. He came to Maitland and opened Hit n Dip in the late 70s, fell in love with the city and never left.
Cr Baker said Mr Geoghegan became a member of the first council elected following two years of the city operating under an administrator. "He played an integral role in bringing stability and focus to the business of council, and in building a strong partnership between the elected council and senior management," she said.
"He was widely respected by councillors from all backgrounds and readily shared his knowledge for the greater good of the city. Bob worked with everyone around the table to achieve the best outcome for Maitland, avoiding personal and partisan politics," she said.
Ms Aitchison said Mr Geoghegan was a fierce advocate for the community and a true gentleman in the political arena. "A consistent and enthusiastic campaigner for arts and culture in Maitland, Bob enriched our city and community," Ms Aitchison said. "He always put Maitland first and continued to work for the many community organisations he supported, despite his illness and the challenges it placed on him."
