Prince bows out from council on her terms

Life will change dramatically for Rockingham councillor Ann Prince, when she leaves her council duties behind next Tuesday, to lead a more relaxing life.

For the past 18 years, Cr Prince has fought for the rights of the Rockingham people in the council chambers, challenging views and sticking to her guns, but now the 74-year-old said it was time to let somebody else have a seat.

“I have loved every minute of it, but it is time for me to go,” she said.

“I am no longer a favourite among the councillors, but I know I will always be a favourite amongst the people, I will miss the people the most.

“I have always been a community person and I will always love the people of Rockingham — if people in the community want help I will still look after them if I can.”

With 19 candidates running for a seat on council in the upcoming October election, Cr Prince said she was glad she was not on the long list.

“I have been voted in every time unopposed and it has been marvellous,” she said.

“I wouldn’t like to be running this year, with 19 candidates — I’m glad I’m away. I think whoever gets in, if they look after the community, the community will keep them there — that is what kept me there for so long.”

Cr Prince said some of her favourite achievements were receiving a Centenary Award in 2000 from John Howard and a WALGA Long and Loyal Service Award in 2007, but it was working to help the community which she believed was her greatest achievement.

“I have done as much as I can form them, (community) and that is my greatest achievement — that is all I care about,” she said.