Col Firmin, Australian politician (d. 2013)

Colin Charles "Col" Firmin (11 April 1940 – 3 March 2013) was a prominent figure in Australian politics, specifically known for his dedicated service within the Northern Territory. His career encompassed both local government and the territory's legislative assembly, marked by commitment and a notable independent run.

A Foundation in Local Governance

Born on 11 April 1940, Col Firmin began his public service journey in the realm of local government. From 1976 to 1983, he diligently served as an Alderman for the City of Darwin. During this period, Darwin, the capital of the Northern Territory, was experiencing significant growth and development following the devastation of Cyclone Tracy in 1974. As an Alderman, Firmin was instrumental in addressing local community needs, overseeing urban infrastructure, and contributing to the strategic planning and recovery efforts that shaped the city's future. His seven years in local politics provided him with a deep understanding of community issues and the practicalities of governance.

Transition to Territory Parliament

Firmin's dedication and experience caught the attention of the ruling Country Liberal Party (CLP), a dominant political force in the Northern Territory known for its blend of conservative and rural interests. In 1983, he was preselected by the CLP to contest the electoral division of Ludmilla for the Northern Territory Legislative Assembly. This marked a significant step in his political journey, transitioning from municipal oversight to the territory's unicameral parliament, which is responsible for making laws and overseeing the governance of the Northern Territory. His subsequent election at the 1983 Northern Territory election solidified his position as a representative at the territory level.

Re-election and Electoral Redistribution

His tenure in the Legislative Assembly was reaffirmed when he was successfully re-elected at the 1987 election, demonstrating continued public support for his representation of Ludmilla. However, the political landscape underwent a significant shift in 1990. Electoral boundaries in Australia are periodically redrawn through a process known as redistribution to ensure fair representation based on population changes. This process led to the abolishing of the Ludmilla electorate. Consequently, Firmin faced the challenge of securing preselection for a new seat. He unfortunately lost the internal CLP preselection contest for the newly formed seat of Brennan to Max Ortmann.

Independent Candidacy and Later Life

Undeterred by this setback within his party, Col Firmin made a pivotal decision. He quit the CLP and chose to run as an independent candidate in the 1990 election for the seat of Brennan. This move underscored his commitment to public service, even outside traditional party structures, and highlighted the often challenging path of independent politicians against established party machinery. Despite his valiant effort, he was ultimately defeated by Max Ortmann, bringing an end to his time in the Northern Territory Legislative Assembly. Following his active political career, Firmin eventually settled in Buddina, a coastal locality in Queensland, where he passed away on 3 March 2013, at the age of 72. The specific causes of his passing were not publicly disclosed, but his legacy as a committed local and territory politician remains.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Who was Colin Charles "Col" Firmin?

Colin Charles "Col" Firmin was an Australian politician, most notably serving as an Alderman for the City of Darwin and later as a member of the Northern Territory Legislative Assembly for the electoral division of Ludmilla.

Which political party did Firmin belong to?

Initially, Firmin was a member of the Country Liberal Party (CLP), a dominant force in Northern Territory politics. However, he later left the CLP to run as an independent candidate in the 1990 election.

What was Firmin's role in local government?

He served as an Alderman for the City of Darwin from 1976 to 1983, contributing to urban development, community needs, and strategic planning for the capital during a period of recovery and growth.

Why did Firmin run as an independent?

After the Ludmilla electorate was abolished in 1990 due to electoral redistribution, Firmin lost the internal preselection contest for the new seat of Brennan to Max Ortmann within the CLP. Consequently, he decided to run as an independent candidate in the subsequent election.

When and where did Colin Firmin pass away?

Col Firmin passed away on 3 March 2013, at the age of 72, in Buddina, Queensland. The causes of his death were not publicly disclosed.