24/10/2023

Former Kogarah Mayor Brian Langton was remembered as a “tireless advocate” for Kogarah by Councillors at Georges River Council’s October meeting.
 
A motion was passed to mark the loss of the late Honourable Brian Langton, who was commemorated as a dedicated public servant and esteemed member of the Australian Labor Party.
 
Georges River Council Mayor Sam Elmir acknowledged Brian Langton's unwavering dedication to his community and the “indelible mark he left on Kogarah and New South Wales”.
 
“We extend our deepest sympathies to Brian Langton’s wife Elizabeth and family during this difficult time. Brian's memory will be etched in hearts in Georges River for many years to come and his contributions will not be forgotten,” Mayor Elmir said.
 
“Mr Langton's passing will be felt most sharply by the community of Kogarah, of which he was a tireless advocate.”
 
Mr Langton's journey in public service began with a strong foundation in education at Marist Brothers Kogarah.
 
Following in the footsteps of his father, he embarked on a remarkable career in local politics and at the tender age of 23, was elected to the former Kogarah Council in 1971.
 
Over the course of twelve years, including a term as Mayor, Brian Langton demonstrated a passionate commitment to his community. His service extended further as he became the State Member of Parliament for Kogarah, a role he held for 16 years.
 
Brian Langton will be remembered for his many outstanding achievements. Notably for Georges River, he successfully lobbied then-Premier Neville Wran to fund a cardiac unit at St George Hospital.
 
This unit has become a leading establishment in the field and has extended the lives of countless residents.
 
Additionally, he, alongside Phill Bates, initiated the annual cycling promotion at Anglo Square, Carlton, which became a beloved tradition for 19 years.
 
In 1995, Mr Langton took on the role of Minister for Transport, Tourism, Fair Trading, and Emergency Services, contributing significantly to the broader New South Wales community.
 
His retirement as Kogarah MP in 1999 marked the beginning of a new chapter, with Cherie Burton and now Premier Chris Minns succeeding him.
 
Brian Langton dedicated his time to Australian Rules football, serving as President of the St George club in the early 2000s. He chaired the NSW judiciary in that sport for nearly two decades.
 
He was appointed to Chair Sydney Ferries and as a Board Member of Bus NSW.
 
Beyond his political career, Mr Langton was an active volunteer, contributing to numerous local organisations such as the Board of St George Hospital, the St George School for Children with Disabilities, Lifeline, Wesley Mission, St Vincent de Paul, and the St George Cancer Care Centre, among many others. His philanthropic spirit enriched the lives of countless individuals.
 
Brian Langton shared 47 years of marriage with his wife, Elizabeth, and together they raised three children, Davina, Adele, and Celia, who in turn have formed their own families.
 
Georges River Council extends heartfelt sympathies to Elizabeth and the entire Langton family, as we mourn the loss of a remarkable contributor to our district.