City of Cockburn pays tribute to former Mayor Don Miguel

THE City of Cockburn has paid tribute to last standing Freeman of the City and former Mayor Don Miguel following his passing last month.

Mr de San Miguel, who passed away on June 15, was a Cockburn councillor and Mayor from 1965 until 199 3 and is only one of five members of the community given the honour of Freeman of the City.

Mayor Logan Howlett said Mr Miguel was known for his robust discussion at council meetings and his strong advocacy for Cockburn right up to his passing.

“His direct and forthright advice to mayors, councillors and chief executives over his long and distinguished contribution from a local and statewide perspective, was always relevant and focused,” he said.

Mr Miguel’s tenure began when Cockburn was still part of Fremantle Roads Board, through its progression to shire, town, and city.

He became inaugural Mayor of the City of Cockburn when the former town, of which he was also Mayor, attained city status on October 26, 1979.

“As Mayor for 14 years, he successfully contested an annual vote by his fellow elected members, and retained this position until retiring from council in 1993,” Mayor Howlett said.

“He previously spent seven years as Deputy Mayor.”

Mr Miguel was named Honorary Freeman of the City in recognition of his dedicated service to the Cockburn district on May 15, 1984 joining Joseph Cooper, Alan Thomas, Wally Hagan and Ray Lees.

The City’s flags were flown at half-mast on the day of his funeral.