People Australia

Bill Brennan, n.d.

William Sydney (Bill) Brennan (1907-1983) glazier, storekeeper, mayor, shire councillor and shire president 

Birth: 24 November 1907 in Cobar, New South Wales, son of native-born parents Richard Sydney Brennan (1881-1925) and Elizabeth Anne, née O’Brien. Marriage: 1940 in Sydney, New South Wales, to Zillah Mary Rankin (1901-1997). They had a daughter and two sons, one of whom died in infancy. Death: 18 October 1983 in Dubbo, NSW, after a series of strokes. Religion: ? 

• Moved around the country during Depression years. Trained as glazier and lived in Cobar with brother who was also a glazier. Obtained contracts to repair storm damage to properties. The experience gained led to opening of hardware store, which later became one of the largest in NSW.
• Served in Local Government for 22 years. President of Cobar Shire for 19 years.
• In 1923 joined East Maitland branch of the Australian Labor Party. In 1938, transferred to Cobar Branch. Cobar branch delegate to State and Federal electorate councils numerous times to 1974. Held executive positions on both.
• Frequent delegate to ALP annual conference and council.
• Served on Primary Industry Committee, which he chaired for at least one term. President, Cobar branch of ALP for many years. Active in State electoral campaigns and in Cobar branch.
• Awarded the British Empire Medal for services to local government in June 1973.
• In 1979 nominated by Cobar Branch for life membership of NSW ALP.

Sources
Information from Sue Tracey, February 2005.