It is with great sadness that I advise of the sudden passing this week of Balranald Shire Council’s General Manager, Jeffrey Sowiak. Jeff only commenced his role with Council in April this year, having come from Brewarrina Shire Council, but he had already made his mark on the organisation. He had a long career in local government holding senior positions in councils in every Australian State, except South Australia.
Right up until his passing, Jeff was playing an instrumental role in leading Council’s flood preparations and supporting the SES and the Shire communities in combating the current emergency across Balranald Shire.
Jeff will be greatly missed, especially for his personal warmth and his passion for local government and our community. Jeff was a friend to all in every community where he has served.
On behalf of Council and the wider community, I extend our deepest sympathy to Jeff’s wife Jeanette and to the Sowiak family for their untimely loss.
Mike Colreavy
Administrator
Balranald Shire Council
