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Dear LG Focus,
It is with sorrow that I acknowledge the passing of Mike Hill and, on behalf of the Victorian Local Governance Association (VLGA), I extend our sympathies to Mike’s partner, Lorna, and his extended family.
Mike was warm, intelligent, inspiring, kind and considered. He was one of those rare people who recognised his privilege and dedicated his life to extending that privilege to the benefit of others and the world around us.
Though there have been many fellow travellers on the VLGA journey, few hold a place as significant and pivotal as Mike Hill.
Mike was a founding member and CEO of the VLGA. In 1994, when the Kennett Government dismissed councillors and entered into a process of forced amalgamations, he worked almost without rest to provide a voice for communities left without local democracy.
Mike led the VLGA and Local Government through some of its most challenging years and worked each and every day to support, foster and grow the capacity of local government in Victoria.
The VLGA itself stands as a testament to his commitment to others and a belief in community, representation and democracy.
I, along with the VLGA Board and staff, would like to pass on our sincere condolences at this extremely sad time.
Sebastian Klein
President, Victorian Local Governance Association
