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Bob remembered

The late Bob Turner has been remembered as a fantastic councillor who had the community at heart.

Baw Baw Shire mayor Danny Goss, who shared a friendship with Bob spanning 45 years, extended condolences on behalf of council to Mr Turner's family at a recent council meeting.
Cr Goss described Mr Turner as an excellent sportsman, highly respected teacher and successful business owner who only wore overalls, didn't tolerate fools and was loved by all.
Although sharing a few cheeky stories, he said "it's right to remember him though as a very serious and honest contributor to our community".
"He gave so much," Cr Goss said. "Even though it's been 23 years since he resigned from council, we shouldn't forget."
"We knew him to be a person who did a lot for his community. We honour, treasure and recognise the contribution he made to our shire."
Cr Goss said Mr Turner, who was 88-years-old when he died on February 1, served as mayor in 1999/20 and councillor from 1997 to 2003.
A highlight of his mayoral term was carrying out the Australian citizenship ceremony which included his wife Jacquey.
"It was just amazing that the mayor did the honours for his wife," Cr Goss said. "It was a big deal, a big party."
"Bob provided very distinguished service; he was open to everybody and knew everybody in this town."
"He became an inspiration for me. I said to Bob, 'if you can do it, I can do it surely'."
Having helped in Mr Turner's election campaign, Cr Goss said he had the same offer when he decided to stand. However, times had changed.
"He was irreverent and he was absolutely not politically correct at all. He would not last five minutes here today; wouldn't have lasted with the last council 20 seconds."
"But everybody loved him," Cr Goss added.
A builder, Mr Turner also was remembered for his many years spent teaching at Warragul Technical School.
"He was really loved and admired by kids; you can't say this about a lot of teachers. He's produced a lot of the tradies that are in this town today, business owners as well."
An ex-student said Mr Turner turned tough kids into good citizens and "if he had of asked us to walk on water, we all would have tried to do it".
He and wife Jacquey are also known for owning Warragul business Gippsland Travel for almost 40 years.
A memorial service will be held on Friday, March 7.

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