Dr Michael Lekias has been accorded the title of Honorary Freeman of the City of Canning.
Camera IconDr Michael Lekias has been accorded the title of Honorary Freeman of the City of Canning. Credit: Supplied/Supplied

Accolades for local doctor

Katelyn Booth, Canning TimesCanning Gazette

For more than 40 years, Dr Lekias has provided medical service to the community and when the Council was suspended and subsequently dismissed in 1991, he was part of an advisory panel for Commissioner Charlie Gregorini.

When an elected body once again governed Canning, Dr Lekias was the community’s choice of Mayor, a position he held until his retirement in 2008.

As an Honorary Freeman of the City, Dr Lekias confers no special rights, however, it does mean he will be invited to the City’s formal functions.

PerthNow Digital Edition.
Your local paper, whenever you want it.

Get in front of tomorrow's news for FREE

Journalism for the curious Australian across politics, business, culture and opinion.

READ NOW

Dr Lekias was unable to speak with the Canning Times before print, due to personal reasons.

A City of Canning representative said Dr Lekias had the ability to freely converse with people from all backgrounds.

‘He provided very even-handed leadership of a council that included some of the councillors previously dismissed as well as new ones wanting to change Canning,’ he said.

‘His inspiring leadership helped the City of Canning administration to provide exceptional service to residents and ratepayers, and his work as a medical professional is highly regarded by his peers.’

The City had received two petitions from more than 300 Canning residents and ratepayers in support of nominating Dr Lekias for the title.

The nomination was assessed in accordance with the Honorary Freeman of the City of Canning Policy.

Dr Lekias joins two other recipients in the City of Canning: Ernest Clarke who served on council from 1951-1982, including the role of President/Mayor from 1971-1982 and Noel Dawkins, who was chief executive officer from 1955-1986.