47 1/2 Years Service to the Community

Robert Ball - Waverley c1964

As I have done for the last 41 years, when I said goodbye to Mr Geniaus this morning, I told him to have a good day at work. That was the last time I will be giving him that message as tomorrow we start a new chapter in our life.

Robert Ball retires today after a working life of 47 1/2 years spent serving the residents of  three Sydney Local Government Areas: Rockdale, Waverley and Hornsby. He was the chief executive at  Waverley and Hornsby for a total of  33 years, spending over 13 years as the Town Clerk at Waverley and 19 years as the General Manager at Hornsby. During that time he has served around a dozen mayors and tens of aldermen and councillors.

I could sing his praises but, as I am biased in my opinions, may not be too objective. Others said nice things about Robert at the various farewell functions held in his honour and he has received a number of cards and letters congratulating him and thanking him for his work.

The message on one card sums up what many have said:

To dear Robert,

Here's to a wonderful and restful retirement!

For your forbearance and fortitude in the face of the most appalling harassment from some members of the community. I salute you!

For your intelligent counselling of me and my colleagues. I salute you!

For your demonstrated superior management skills in balancing the demands of Councillors and the community against the need to balance budgets, and delivering what everyone wants/demands. I salute you!

For your patience and good humour in the face of often stupid behaviour by Councillors. I salute you!

Employees and colleagues from other councils have said:

Thank you so much for your help, support and guidance over the past 5 1/2 years.|

It has been a privilege to work with you and I will miss your sound advice and knowledge.

Robert Ball - Hornsby 2011

Thanks your advice and knowledge - I've learned a great deal from you.

Thank you for all your support and advice over the years.

Thank you for being such a supportive, friendly and approachable General Manager.

It has been great working with you over the years. You have always been a font of knowledge and experience!

Thank you for your guidance, support and sense of humour.

Thank you so much for your advice and wise counsel over the many years that we have known each other.