Retired Waipā district councillor and longtime Cambridge Community Board supporter Judy Bannon has died.
More women needed: from left Sue Milner, Judy Bannon, Jo Davies- Colley, Liz Stolwyk, Alana Mackay are encouraging women into local politics. Photo: Michael Jeans.
Her extensive experience with local body politics began over a decade ago. Even after she officially retired, she retained a strong interest in local affairs, usually over regular coffee or lunch dates with former colleagues.
Waipā deputy mayor Liz Stolwyk said she and Bannon had started together on council in 2013. Bannon went on two complete two terms, or six years. Describing her as a role model, Stolwyk said she was “an incredibly dedicated and astute councillor who worked incredibly hard for her community. Her interest in local issues never faltered… she rarely missed a community board meeting either.”
Cambridge Community Board head Jo Davies-Colley said Bannon was an engaged and informed attendee at community board meetings, seldom missing any.
“She was hugely supportive of young women in politics and encouraged us in our political journeys,” she added. “She was a wonderful example to us all of someone who dedicated her life to advocating for the community, and we will miss her.”
Judy Bannon
Sue Milner, who was involved with the Cambridge Community Board alongside her, said Bannon would be missed for a host of reasons, not the least of which was her standout style and elegance.
“She did an MBA through Waikato University at the same time as my husband and always kept her hand in with council and community board affairs.”
Until late last year, Bannon was a trustee with Waipā Networks. Her involvement with the community also saw her act as a judge in the annual Waipā Youth Awards.
Former colleagues and friends will attend Bannon’s funeral service in Cambridge this week, with many pledging to honour the fitting caveat that appeared in her funeral notice… colourful dress welcome.
Women in politics 2022: from left, Judy Bannon, Louise Upston, Jenni Dacomb, Alana Mackay, Elise Badger, Jo Davies-Colley, Liz Stolwyk, Susan O’Regan, Norma Mackie, Sue Milner and sitting, Rosemary Hill.
