Lismore is mourning the loss of former mayor Jenny Dowell OAM, remembered as a compassionate leader and tireless advocate who dedicated her life to the community.
Ms Dowell, who served on council from 2004 to 2016 including eight years as mayor, died peacefully at home aged 75, surrounded by her family.
Her husband Ron said she died knowing she was deeply loved by her community, after choosing voluntary assisted dying following a recurrence of cancer.
Knowing the end was near gave many in the community time to acknowledge her life and contribution, including Janelle Saffin, who spoke about Ms Dowell in parliament last week, and over 300 people attended the “We love you Jenny Dowell” farewell from the creative community.
Her death has prompted tributes from across the political spectrum and community, reflecting a lifetime of service that extended well beyond her time in office.
During her time as mayor, Ms Dowell became known for her accessibility, work ethic and strong connection to the community, often attending multiple events in a single day and prioritising listening to local voices. She was widely regarded as a mayor who was present, visible and deeply engaged with the people she represented.
“Everyone has a voice and deserves to be heard,” she said in a recent interview.
“When I was elected, part of me was, ‘I’m going to be here, to hear those voices.’”
Her leadership extended beyond council chambers, including a prominent role in the successful community campaign against coal seam gas mining at Bentley, one of the defining grassroots movements in the Northern Rivers in recent years.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese described Ms Dowell as “a friend and a trailblazer” who served Lismore “with bravery and boldness”.
“You’ve served the proud community of Lismore with bravery and boldness, most importantly, always in the service of others,” he said in a personal tribute.
Before entering politics, Ms Dowell spent 35 years in education, working as a teacher of deaf children and later as a lecturer in speech and language development, reflecting a lifelong commitment to inclusion, communication and opportunity. That background shaped her approach to leadership, with a strong emphasis on listening, accessibility and ensuring people felt heard.
After leaving council, she continued to contribute to the sector through Local Government NSW as a trainer and mentor, supporting dozens of councillors and mayors across the state. She also remained active in the community through volunteer work, including with the Red Cross, and continued to advocate for those doing it tough.
Southern Cross University Vice-Chancellor Tyrone M Carlin said Ms Dowell’s impact on the region was profound.
“Jenny’s contribution to the Lismore and Northern Rivers communities was extraordinary,” he said.
“She was a thoughtful and principled leader, and a tireless advocate for equity, inclusion and community connection.”
The university awarded Ms Dowell an Honorary Doctorate in 2017 in recognition of her service and enduring contribution to public life.
A community service to celebrate her life will be held at The Quad in Lismore on Tuesday, March 31 at 10am, with a large turnout expected from across the region.
Ms Dowell is survived by her husband Ron, children Georgie and Tim, and her sister Robyn.
The NSW local government sector has also paid tribute, with Local Government NSW President Darcy Byrne describing Ms Dowell as “a natural leader who brought people together” and someone who always put her community first.
North Coast Times is new! Connect with us by sending press releases to newsdesk@nctimes.com.au or enquire about advertising with us by emailing ads@nctimes.com.au.