Former Mayor of Murray Bridge, Allan Arbon OAM JP has died.
Council have announced the news on social media this week saying they are deeply saddened to announce the news, saying he passed away peacefully last week.
“Allan will be remembered as a dedicated and deeply valued member of our community, not only during his time as Mayor but also in the years that followed. He was a friend to all, a mentor to many, and a role model whose guidance and kindness left a lasting impact,” read the Rural City of Murray Bridge post on Facebook.
“Our thoughts are with his family, friends and all who had the privilege of working alongside him.”
Arbon’s leadership in the Murraylands spanned decades, beginning as an elected member of the District Council of Karoonda in 1969, later becoming its Chair in 1970. He went on to serve as the first Mayor of Karoonda (1979–1981), before returning to lead as Mayor of the District Council of Karoonda East Murray in 1993. In 2000, Allan was elected Mayor of the Rural City of Murray Bridge, a role he held with distinction for 14 years.
Throughout his tenure, Allan played a pivotal role in numerous key projects that shaped the region, including revitalising the Murray Bridge Railway Precinct, securing funding for the Monarto Interchange, establishing a Strategic Alliance with the District Councils of Mount Barker and Alexandrina, avocating for the completion of the North-South Transport Corridor (Ferries McDonald Road), negotiating with the State Government to ensure the community’s interests were protected in the expansion of correctional and mental health facilities, and driving initiatives to enhance community safety.
He also championed the Gifford Hill development, which paved the way for a new racecourse and future housing for 10,000 residents, he supported the 2010 Regional Centre of Culture program and the renovation of the Town Hall and Art Gallery, led the development of The Marketplace shopping complex and library and strongly advocated for the Monarto employment precinct and water independence initiatives.
Allan was also instrumental in strengthening relationships with the Ngarrindjeri community and played a significant role in the signing of the Kungun Yunnan Agreement.
In recognition of his lifelong dedication to public service, Allan was awarded the Order of Australia Medal (OAM) in 2010.
Allan’s funeral will be held at the Uniting Church, Murray Bridge on Wednesday 12 February 2025 commencing at 2pm.
