
The former Mayor succumbed to a year-long battle with cancer.
Leading the tributes, the Borough of Queenscliffe (BoQ) said Cr Salter’s near-decade of service was “marked by a devotion to her community and to the people who live here." Councillors observed one minute’s silence at the March general meeting.
“Renowned for her accessibility, Cr Salter could often be found discussing issues in depth with local residents and confidently supporting their interests on council matters,” a BoQ statement said.
“While her passion for many subjects was remarkable, Cr Salter’s particular interest in trees, gardens and parks saw her lead renewal works on the Borough’s Avenue of Honour and influence a number of other landscaping projects. From the grand old trees she worked to preserve to the newest green shoots of planting she encouraged, Cr Salter’s legacy will be in the natural spaces she nurtured that our community will enjoy for years to come,” it continued.
Councillor Salter had not long returned from three months of personal leave when she announced her resignation on March 9 – just a week before her death.
A former Bellarine Secondary School teacher and ALP campaign manager, she was first elected to Council in 2012 and served as Mayor for one year from 2017-18.
“As a Councillor and Mayor, Sue was a strong, passionate advocate , a person who worked tirelessly for Queenscliff and its ratepayers,” said Bellarine MP Lisa Neville.
“Personally, for more than 20 years I enjoyed her friendship and her support, including working as my campaign manager.
“Queenscliff has lost a true community champion, whose legacy will never be forgotten,” Ms Neville said.