Obituaries Australia

Mrs Beatrice Martin, a champion of the aged, underprivileged and fighter for women’s rights for more than 60 years, died in Royal Newcastle Hospital yesterday after a brief illness.

Mrs Martin spent much of her life invading male strongholds. She was a member of the ALP for more than 50 years, an alderman on Newcastle City Council for 12 years a representative on Shortland County Council, Northumberland County Council and the State Planning Authority.

Born in Melbourne 83 years ago she left school to obtain a job as a chef. She later worked in some of the top capital city hotels.

The second woman alderman on Newcastle City Council, she often fought in the face of strong opposition for womens’ causes, the provision of amenities blocks, creches and kindergartens, the establishment of the now highly successful Housekeepers’ Emergency Service, rate relief for deserted wives and better educational facilities for women.

Mrs Martin fought just as hard for elderly people, and victims of the Depression. She was a foundation member of the Sunshine Club. She had more than 20 unemployed living in her home during the Depression.

After having battled for premises for the Lang St Elderly Citizens’ Centre, Mrs Martin spent most of her time in the past few years as president of the centre’s organising committee, often working 8 or 10 hours a day supervising catering and recreational activities, home visits and hospital treatment.

She was awarded the MBE in 1965.

Last year, having suffered a mild heart attack, Mrs Martin visited her older sisters and brother in Melbourne for a family reunion. She had only just returned when she fell ill.

A close friend of Mrs Martin, Mr A. Wade, MLA, said yesterday she was “a woman who cared, tirelessly and exceptionally, without ever once thinking of herself.