Burnside honours former Mayor Michael Perry AM

A respect for community drove former City of Burnside Mayor Michael Perry AM. Now it is respect for the legacy of Michael Perry that drives Council’s efforts to rejuvenate the reserve named in his sake.

After years of hard work and dedication, Michael Perry Botanic Reserve in Stonyfell has been restored to a native vegetation haven thanks to the efforts of the City of Burnside’s Conservation and Land Management team and volunteers.

Featuring redeveloped walking paths, crystal clear water systems and a wide array of native flora, Michael Perry Botanic Reserve is the hidden gem of the City of Burnside’s nationally recognised parklands.

Michael Perry, who recently celebrated his 91^st birthday at On Statenborough where he now resides, is deeply entrenched in the City of Burnside’s history and community, having formerly served as Councillor, Alderman and Mayor.

Born in Kent Town in 1932, Michael moved to Hazelwood Park at the age of 10 and has been a resident of the city ever since. Attending Prince Alfred College for the entirety of his schooling, Michael excelled on the sporting field and was part of the First XI cricket, First XVIII football and First Tennis teams, as well as being named School Captain in his senior year.

Following his high school graduation in 1951, Michael took up working at the family business Perry Engineering, which employed around 1,300 people. Eventually moving up and becoming director of the company, Michael left Perry Engineering in 1985 to become an Industrial Commissioner of South Australia and a Commissioner in the Australian Industrial Relations Commission. Michael retired in 1994.

Just as illustrious as Michael’s professional career was his public service. First becoming a Councillor with the City of Burnside at the age of 26, Michael held the position until 1965 and then again from 1971 to 1973. Becoming the 14^th Mayor of the City of Burnside in 1973, Michael served in the role for two years before then becoming an Alderman until 1983, at which time he ceased his service for the city. Michael was awarded a Member of the Order of Australia on 26 January 1983 for his service to industry and the community.

Speaking about his time at the City of Burnside, Michael said he didn’t move into public service on any particular issue, but to assist in any way he could.

‘I think I benefited from the point of view that I tried to contribute to serve the community, rather than just sitting back and expecting things to happen,’ Michael said.

Having played an important role in bringing several iconic Council projects to life, all of which continue to serve the community to this day, Michael notes the establishment of the Burnside Library, George Bolton Swimming Centre and the transformation of Kensington Oval as some of the highlights during his tenure.

In celebration of both the regeneration of the reserve and the milestone birthday for Michael, the City of Burnside, supporting both On Statenborough and Resthaven, joined them for a special event at the Michael Perry Botanic Reserve on Thursday 16 November.

Residents of On Statenborough were treated to a guided tour of the reserve by the City of Burnside’s Dr Mark Ellis, who gave attendees insight into the unique history of the reserve as well as the process behind its rejuvenation. A picturesque day, the tour group were then shuttled back to On Statenborough for a presentation and morning tea, with Michael Perry and his family the guests of honour. Also in attendance were several City of Burnside Council Members, Council’s executive team and many On Statenborough residents.

The City of Burnside would like to congratulate Michael Perry on his milestone birthday and for the lasting impact he has left on the Burnside community.

Michael Perry AM with Mayor Anne Monceaux

Michael Perry AM with his wife and daughters

Left to right: Julie Williams, Matt Cragg, City of Burnside CEO Chris Cowley, Mayor Anne Monceaux, Darren Baynes, Cr Jane Davey, Dr Mark Ellis

Left to right: Cr Mike Daws, Cr Jo Harvey, Cr Jenny Turnbull, Cr Jane Davey, Michael Perry AM, Mayor Anne Monceaux

On Statenborough residents tour Michael Perry Botanic Reserve