Andrew Willcox (Dawson, Liberal National Party) Share this | Hansard source

Today I pay tribute to one of nature's true gentleman, a local statesman and all-round good bloke, Mr Hugh Mitchell Clarke, more broadly known as Mitch. Mitch departed from us on 13 October 2022 at the age of 92, leaving behind a legacy of commitment and service to community. He now rests with his beloved wife, Edna. Mitch was a proud father of two sons, Allan and Glenn, and then later in life he was a proud grandfather of his six grandchildren. Mitch was a canegrower in Glen Isla with his father. They farmed the land together from 1950, and he enjoyed a rich life with his wife, raising their children there. Later on in life he handed the farm on to his sons.

I knew of Mitch a long time before I knew him personally, such was his presence and highly esteemed reputation in our community. He served on the executive of the Proserpine District Canegrowers for 21 years. He brought a great deal of passion and understanding to his role. He served on the hospital board for almost two decades and he helped found the Whitsunday Sailing Club. He was a proud National Party member for over 25 years. One of his greatest passions was Rotary, which he served for more than 55 years. He was a member of the Masonic lodge for over 65 years. He was a man of the land and he loved the sea. He loved his farm and he loved where he lived. He loved the Whitsundays. He loved his family.

Vale Hugh Mitchell Clarke. Thank you for your sacrifice and unwavering dedication and service to the community of Dawson. A life well lived and a presence dearly missed. Rest in peace, you great man.

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