Council pays tribute to former Mayor, Freeman of Shire John Martin OAM

Published on 06 June 2025

Singleton’s first popularly elected Mayor, long-time Councillor and Freeman of the Shire, John Martin OAM, is being remembered as a pillar of the community following his passing late on Thursday 5 June.

Mayor of Singleton, Cr Sue Moore paid tribute to Mr Martin’s unwavering dedication to the community spanning more than six decades, and his guidance through good times—and bad—during multiple terms as mayor and as leading member of the State Emergency Service (SES).

“John’s love for Singleton and his service to its people and the community is unparalleled, and unlikely ever to be repeated,” she said.

“I was very privileged to serve alongside John on Council for a number of terms, and while we may not have always agreed, I had a great respect for his leadership and the vast knowledge, expertise and experience that he brought to the Chamber.

“I’m deeply saddened by his passing and will remember him most for his unwavering commitment to always acting with the best interests of the community at heart.”

Mr Martin was first elected to Singleton Municipal Council in 1965 and served more than 50 years as a local government representative.

This included being elected Mayor of Singleton Council from 1999-2000 and being the first popularly elected Mayor in 2012.

He concluded his local government career in 2021.

Mr Martin became just the fifth person to receive the highest civic honour Singleton can bestow when he was awarded Freeman of the Shire in 2020 in recognition of his outstanding and exemplary contribution to the Singleton local government area stretching more than 60 years, including life membership of the State Emergency Service (SES), 50 years as a Councillor and as the area’s first popularly elected mayor. 

Mr Martin has also been recognised for his service to Our Care services, Meals on Wheels, Singleton Apex Club, Albion Park Tennis Club, Singleton Hospital community trust, and Singleton Tidy Towns.

“John leaves a huge legacy and although he was a humble man, his mark on Singleton will remain for decades to come,” Cr Moore said.

“He was steadfastly loyal to the people of Singleton right up until his passing and while our community, and indeed the wider Hunter Region is all the poorer for his loss, we have certainly been enriched by his contribution.

“Vale John, and thank you.”