It is with profound sadness that I acknowledge the passing of Tom Gilmore Jr, a true icon and a formidable figure in the Mareeba community. Tom’s departure leaves a significant void, not just in the lives of those who knew him but in the very fabric of our local community.
My heartfelt condolences go out to his wife Sally, their daughters, and all who cherished him. Tom’s legacy transcends his personal achievements, embodying the spirit of dedicated public service and unwavering commitment to the community.
I’ve had the privilege of knowing Tom for more years than I can count. Our paths first crossed in Mareeba, our shared hometown, but it wasn’t until my election to Parliament in 1996, during his tenure as the State Minister for Mines and Energy, that our professional paths truly aligned.
I deeply respected Tom’s work and dedication in his ministerial role, and his decision to step away from state politics only to dive into local government as Mayor speaks volumes about his character and his dedicated service to Mareeba, the Tablelands and Far North Queensland more broadly.
Tom’s work as Mayor was pivotal, particularly his commitment to vital regional projects like the Mareeba Airport. The Tom Gilmore Mareeba Aviation Industrial Precinct now stands as a testament to his vision and tenacity. He never shied away from the hard work needed to see these projects through to fruition and as a result his efforts have brought immense benefit to the region.
Tom’s lineage, hailing from a family deeply rooted in Mareeba’s history not only in tobacco industry but of political contributions. His father Tom Sr. was the inaugural member for Leichhardt, and then also went on to serve in the Qld Parliament as the Member for Tablelands. This undoubtedly laid the foundations for a life dedicated to public service. Tom was always supported by his family and he continued the Gilmore’s political legacy with distinction.
As a politician, Tom was a mentor and a guiding light. His wisdom, candid advice, and readiness to assist a then-newly minted politician like myself were invaluable. His impact will be long remembered, not only in the initiatives he championed but in the many lives he touched through his public and private endeavours.
Tom Gilmore OAM will be dearly missed, but his legacy will endure through the ongoing benefits of his service to our community. Our thoughts are with Sally, their daughters, and all who mourn his loss.
Vale, Tom Gilmore – thank you for your service and your friendship.