Annette Waddle

Annette Waddle was a staunch supporter of a range of causes and worked tirelessly for her community.

From the time Annette joined the Federation Association of Australian Housewives - Tasmania Branch in 1980, she encouraged many housewives to join the Association and rally for a better deal for consumers. Her relentless pursuit for consumer protection saw her use the media heavily to help fight for more accurate scanner pricing at supermarkets. She promoted her concerns by printing slogans on her car. The end result was that consumer complaints gained public notice and were addressed.

Annette was Tasmanian Vice President of the Federation Association of Australian Housewives from 1986 to 2005 and President of the Launceston branch.

In 1989, when Alderman Jandy Godfrey, the only woman on the Launceston City Council decided not to recontest her seat, Annette decided to run for Council and was elected. At that time, Annette was the only woman Alderman and the fifth woman to ever serve on the Launceston City Council.

After 21 years, Annette became the longest serving woman on the Launceston City Council and the longest serving female Deputy Mayor with six and a half years in the position. Annette was also one of the shortest serving Mayors. After the death of Mayor John Lees in November 2001, Annette served for three months.

Annette was an active member and President of the Lilydale Progress Association and was involved in improving various aspects of Lilydale.

Annette pushed for more public protection from mobile phone towers and their locations, by having motions passed at the Australian Local Government Association conference and by gaining political support.

Annette later moved into another area of dedication, being full time carer to her husband John of 52 years. She passed away in June 2024.