One of Tasmania’s most recognisable public figures has called time on a three decade-long political career.
Launceston Councillor Jim Cox retired from public life at the end of the August, bringing down the curtain on a distinguished career in both state and local government, including 11 years as an elected representative at the City of Launceston.
Councillor Cox began his professional career as a news presenter with TNT9 and co-hosted the locally produced Saturday Night Show, as well as working as a radio announcer in the 1970s and 80s.
He won Logie award as the Most Popular Tasmanian Television Personality in 1979 and 1981.
Councillor Cox was first elected to the House of Assembly as a Labor candidate in the electorate of Bass in 1989 and spent more than 20 years as a Member of the Tasmanian Parliament having held a number of key portfolios including Police and Emergency Management, Finance and Employment, Racing, Sport and Recreation, Infrastructure and Local Government.
Councillor Cox retired from state politics in 2010 and subsequently served as the chair of the Road Safety Advisory Council.
Turning his focus to local issues, Councillor Cox was elected to the City of Launceston in October 2011. In 2017, he was inducted as a Member of the Order of Australia.
Launceston Mayor Albert van Zetten paid tribute to Councillor Cox’s commitment to the Launceston and broader Northern Tasmanian community.
“Jim has always been a considered and well-reasoned voice around the Council table,” Mayor van Zetten said.
“I wish Jim and his wife Elaine all the best for the future, and thank them for their genuine and heartfelt passion for Launceston. He has always been passionate about road safety as well as an outspoken advocate for Launceston’s transport and road network.”
Councillor Cox said after more than 50 years in the public spotlight, the time had finally arrived for him to take some well-earned time out.
“I have genuinely enjoyed my time on council – it’s a wonderful organisation that has been able to achieve so much for the ratepayers over the past decade and that’s something I’m particularly proud to have been a part of,” Councillor Cox said.
“The City is really moving forward in leaps and bounds and I hope it continues to do so over the next term of council.
“And to those contesting the next election, I wish you success and I will be watching on with great interest.”
Councillor Cox’s seat on council will remain vacant until the upcoming Local Government elections in October.
