BY DAKOTA TAIT
Former Newcastle Deputy Lord Mayor Paul Scobie has passed away this week, at the age of 75.
It's understood, he died on Tuesday after an illness.
Mr Scobie was elected as a Labor councillor in 1999 and served until his retirement in 2008, as Deputy Lord Mayor.
His daughter, current Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes, was first elected as a councillor after his departure.
He's being honoured for his work in environmental conservation, as a science teacher, in serving the city, and as a father, grandfather, and husband.
Current Deputy Lord Mayor Declan Clausen says Mr Scobie is leaving an incredible legacy for the city.
"Paul Scobie was an absolute giant, particularly in environmentalism and conservation, somebody that fought for the conservation of the Kakadu National Park against uranium, who fought to save forests in the Northern Rivers region of New South Wales, who fought to put environmentalism on the agenda," Cr Clausen said.
"He's an absolute giant in addition to his role as the Lord Mayor's father, and somebody that has been a great inspiration for me and many others, so he will be very sorely missed and our thoughts are absolutely with the Lord Mayor."
A private funeral is being held for family and friends on Friday.
