Council’s Statement on the Passing of Henry Gunstone

Ararat Rural City Council share their condolences on the passing of Henry Gunstone over the weekend.

Henry worked at Ararat Rural City Council for 36 years and held various roles during his tenure, including Municipal Recreation Officer (administering and coordinating Council’s recreational services), and Community Services Coordinator (leading a team tasked with delivering high quality and responsive recreation and community services). In 2008 he commenced the role of International Relations Officer, maintaining cultural and business links with China while promoting the economic benefits of the region to Chinese delegates.

Henry was instrumental in the establishment of Gum San Chinese Heritage Centre, as well as forging the sister city relationship between Ararat and Tai Shan City in China. He retired from Council in 2011.

A prolific sportsman, Henry proved his outstanding talents as both a cricketer and Australian Rules Football (AFL) player. He played 13 games for the then-South Melbourne Football Club in the Victorian Football League (VFL), and 11 games in the Victorian Premier Cricket competition for the Richmond Cricket Club.

Henry’s exceptional public relations skills were matched by a cool head under pressure, the importance he placed on nurturing both professional and personal relationships with his staff and networks, and his tremendous loyalty to those connections.

Council would like to acknowledge Henry’s dedicated work during his time serving our community. His impact and remarkable legacy will continue to inspire us all.

Image: Henry Gunstone at the re-opening of Gum San Chinese Heritage Centre after COVID-19 lockdowns, 2022. Photograph courtesy of The Ararat Advertiser.