Former Cairns engineer Graeme Haussmann, who is moving to Brisbane, has been given a special send off by Council.
Mr Haussmann, who worked as the City Engineer for Cairns City Council for 32 years, from 1956 to 1988, was farewelled at a morning tea in the Council committee room this morning.
Mayor Bob Manning said Mr Haussmann’s time at Council spanned a pivotal time in the city’s development.
“This was at a time when the Cairns region experienced rapid and expansive development, which created many challenges,” Cr Manning said.
“When Graeme started working for Council, most of the city was flood prone even during relatively minor rainfall.
“There was virtually no underground sewerage network or treatment plant, there was no assured water supply, and most of the roads were gravel.
“Graeme’s gift was being able to look at the problem and understand what was needed to solve it. His insight helped transform Cairns into the modern, liveable city it is today.”
Mr Haussmann’s achievements included the implementation of the Cairns Master Drainage Scheme, installation of a citywide underground sewer network, bitumen sealing of the city’s road and street network, and construction of Copperlode Falls Dam and associated water infrastructure.
Further to his engineering responsibilities, as part of his town planning role, Mr Haussmann, was responsible for setting the blueprint for appropriate development.
Former mayors Val Schier, Kevin Byrne and Ron Davis attended today’s farewell, as well as past deputy mayors Desley Boyle and Lionel Van Dorssen, and former councillors Jeff Pezzutti and Dierdre Ford.
Former deputy mayor Henry Friend also joined the celebration via a video link.
Cr Manning said Graeme brought a positive and constructive attitude to his role, and was considered reliable, trustworthy, and honest.
“Graeme was known for guiding and assisting with the professional development of younger engineers and planners within the engineering and planning departments,” Cr Manning said.
“He was also generous with his time and provided professional advice to community, sporting and not-for-profit organisations.”
Mr Haussmann was honoured by Council in 2017, with the naming of a new bridge on Collins Avenue, Edge Hill.
He was also recognised in the 2023 Australian Honours as a recipient of the Medal of the Order of Australia for his service to engineering and the community.
