Brighton Council mourns the loss of Mr. Tony Foster, who passed away on Monday 27 May 2024. Tony dedicated 34 years of his life to serving the community as both Mayor and Councillor, retiring in June 2021. Remarkably, he held the position of Mayor for 28 of those years.

During his tenure, Tony Foster advocated for the people of Brighton Municipality, earning widespread support for his empathetic leadership style. Tony’s leadership saw Brighton undergo significant growth and development. His efforts transformed Brighton from a quiet rural area into a thriving and diverse municipality.

Tony Foster’s legacy is marked by numerous achievements that have strengthened the local economy and enhanced quality of life in Brighton. Some of these achievements include the new Bridgewater Bridge, the Jordan River Learning Federation, the Brighton Bypass, the revitalisation of the Bridgewater Parklands, the Brighton Transport Hub, the Brighton Medical Centre, and initiatives to enhance sporting facilities and community clubs, among many more.

His memory will endure through the positive impact he made.

Minister Guy Barnett honoured Mr. Foster in the House of Assembly, saying, “I had known Tony for decades, in fact three-and-a-half decades. When I first met Tony, it was in pre-politics days. It was wonderful working with Tony then.”

“Tony was always a strong advocate and a passionate supporter. He was a tiger. He made things happen; he made a significant positive difference in his community. If you think about the things that have occurred in the Brighton municipality over that period, I think that is testament to his leadership for, and on behalf of, the local community,” Mr Barnett continued.

Premier Jeremy Rockliff also paid tribute, saying, “It was an honour and privilege to work closely with Mr Foster throughout my time as Education Minister to establish the new Brighton High School, as well as deliver important upgrades to the Jordan River Learning Federation school.”

“Known for his integrity, good nature and vision, Mr Foster was a forward thinker who was driven by his passion for his local community and Tasmania. I extend my sincere condolences to Mr Foster’s family, friends and the Brighton community,” he said.

As a council we say farewell to a person of action, vision and humanity but his memory and legacy will live on in our communities. We send heartfelt wishes of love and support to his wife Noeline and all of his beloved family members and friends.