Open space at 39 Flagstaff Loop, Craigieburn, has officially been renamed the Joe Sullivan Reserve.
The original reserve bearing Mr Sullivan’s name was located on Craigieburn Road between Hamilton and Walters streets, however the site was acquired by the Deparment of Transport as part of works to widen Craigieburn Road.
Mr Sullivan’s family approached Hume council to find another suitable site to be named the Joe Sullivan Reserve.
On Sunday October 8, Mr Sullivan’s descendants were in attendance, along with Hume Mayor Joseph Haweil, as the new sign was unveiled.
Mr Sullivan was born in 1928 and with wife Elsa raised six sons in Craigieburn. He served in the police force, was an active member of the Lions Club in Craigieburn and assisted with a local youth club.
He was involved with the Air League (Air Force) and the Holy child Football Club in Dallas.
He was also the local postman in the area.
Councillor Jodi Jackson said the memorial was an important marker for the community.
“I think that it’s entirely fitting that we made a new memorial .. it can be appreciated by everyone who is coming into town,” she said.
Mr Sullivan’s newphew, Colin Machell, was elated with the new sign and the unveiling ceremony.
“It was a fantastic result, to have the mayor come down as well made it a great day,” he said.
“He was a great public servant and deserves to be recognised in this way.”
Gerald Lynch
