Mrs. Davey, who was elected to Cessnock City Council in 1983 and served as Mayor from 2008 to 2012, received the award for meritorious service as Mayor along with an outstanding service medal and gold bar for her 29 years’ service to the community.

The honorary title of Emeritus Mayor is intended to provide ongoing recognition to those who have served as at least one full term as popularly elected mayor.

While she didn’t do it for the recognition, Mrs. Davey was honoured to receive the award and is proud of her achievements in her time on the council.

“Looking back, 29 years went very fast,” she said.

Mrs. Davey is still kept busy serving as treasurer for seven local organisations, but she is enjoying having a bit more free time at night.

“I don’t regret doing it (council), but I’ve got a lot more freedom now,” she said.

Local Government Association of NSW president, Cr. Keith Rhoades AFSM, made the presentations along with Mayor of Cessnock, Cr. Bob Pynsent at the February 6 council meeting.

Mrs. Davey and former councillors Rachel Main, Allan McCudden, Neil Gorman, Chris Parker and Dale Troy received council plaques in recognition of their service to the Cessnock local government area.

Mrs. Main and Mr. Troy also received certificates for eight years’ service.

It is council’s usual practice to recognise the service of a councillor through the presentation of a certificate of service and/or a council plaque, for dedicated service as a councillor and to the community.