Former City of Launceston Mayor, Don Wing AM, is being remembered as a dedicated civic leader and passionate Northern Tasmanian, following his passing.
Mr Wing was City of Launceston’s Mayor on two occasions, serving between 1983 and 1987. He was elected as an Alderman of the Launceston Council in 1979 and in 1983 he commenced his first term as Mayor. However, he had also been elected to the Legislative Council in 1982 as an elected member, which demonstrated his dedication to serving the Launceston community.
He was re-elected as the Launceston Mayor in 1986 and held the position until 1987, remaining an alderman until 1991.
As Mayor, he pioneered critical projects and advocated for Launceston’s future prosperity, including through street beautification projects and improving public amenities. Mr Wing also served in a post-political advisory role on the Launceston Flood Authority, following his involvement in critical flood mitigation planning for the city.
City of Launceston Mayor, Matthew Garwood remembered Mr Wing as a passionate civic leader and an important personal role model, especially for those considering local government positions.
“Don Wing made a lasting impact on Launceston and Northern Tasmania through decades of public service, and I was privileged to know him personally,” Mayor Garwood said.
“He was a genuine advocate for Launceston, and he gave decades to the community which he loved – not just during his tenures as Mayor of Launceston, but his years supporting community organisations, and also throughout his political career.
“On behalf of the City of Launceston, I extend our sincere condolences to Mr Wing’s family, friends, former colleagues and all those who knew and worked alongside him.”
The City of Launceston recognises the significant contribution made by Wing during his time as Mayor and throughout his many years of public service and acknowledges the lasting impact of his work.
In a statement, Tasmanian Premier, Jeremy Rockliff said the state was mourning the loss of a “dedicated community leader”.
“Mr Wing leaves a substantial legacy of service to Northern Tasmania and provides a shining example of the contribution a person can make over a lifetime,” said the Premier.
“Don was a true gentleman in every sense of the word.
“We acknowledge that contribution with deep gratitude, and our thoughts are with all those mourning his loss.”
Vale Donald George Wing AM.
