Minister Barr: Statement on passing of Val Jeffery
- Written by ACT Government
Released 18/07/2017
I was saddened to learn today of the death of former ACT Legislative Assembly MLA Valentine ‘Val’ Jeffery.
Mr Jeffery had a lifelong connection to Tharwa and rural ACT and ran the Tharwa general store since 1948. Everyone in Tharwa, or who ever lived in Tharwa, knew and respected Val. He was without doubt an institution of the town.
Notably, for 38 years Val was also a captain of the local bushfire brigade – a cause he was very strongly committed to and cared deeply about.
During his time in the ACT Legislative Assembly he brought a commendable passion for Tharwa and his areas of interest into this place.
Beyond his brief but passionate career in local politics, Val strongly advocated for southern Canberra – and Tharwa in particular - over several decades.
We didn’t always agree with Val, but ACT Labor always greatly respected his passion and enthusiasm for engaging in important issues and with his beloved town of Tharwa.
On behalf of the ACT Labor Government, I offer my condolences to Val’s family, his friends and the town of Tharwa as a whole. Our thoughts are with you all at this difficult time.
Quotes from Minister for Emergency Services Mick Gentleman:
“As Minister for Emergency Services, I would like to pay special tribute to the work of Val Jeffery in the ACT Rural Fire Service. He was a captain in the local bushfire brigade for an amazing 38 years, and an advocate for even longer than that.
“Val was also awarded the Australia Fire Service Medal (AFSM) in the 1994 Queen's Birthday Honours list – an award he received for distinguished service to an Australian fire service.
“Val’s contribution to rural fire fighting in the ACT will always be remembered and appreciated by all members of the emergency services and fire fighting community.
“I knew Val personally for some 30 years and will miss our time together at the Tharwa store. My thoughts are with Val’s family at this difficult time.”
- Statement ends -
Section: Andrew Barr, MLA | Media Releases
