The much loved former Mayor of Alice Springs has passed away.
Leslie Irene Oldfield (Huggins), former Mayor of Alice Springs from 1983 to 1992, died yesterday at Apollo Bay aged 71 years.
As a young woman Leslie traveled overseas.
She was the personal assistant to the Territory’s legendary aviation pioneer Eddie Connellan for many years, and a couple of years ago Leslie returned to give the keynote speech at an event at the aviation museum.
After being Mayor she married her sweetheart from youth, Alan Huggins, in the gardens of the Old Timers Museum and they recently celebrated their 19th wedding anniversary.
They went to live on Alan’s farm in Apollo Bay where they kept sheep and cattle.
Leslie settled easily into the life of the farm and cared for many lambs and baby alpacas.
She established a beautiful and productive garden around the homestead. She learned to spin and spun her own wool.
She became very much part of the community.
After being diagnosed with an aggressive form a cancer which was throughout her body, she spent the last few months of her life in a palliative care unit at Apollo Bay where until quite recently she continued her public life and charitable activities, in her inimitable style, from her bed.
Leslie leaves behind friends across the country, many of whom recently travelled to Apollo Bay to say their goodbyes.
(Contributed by Helen Fisher. Google the many references to this immensely popular public figure in our story archive. Feel free to click FULL STORY and leave your tribute in the comment box.)
R.I.P. Leslie Oldfield … A wonderful and friendly lady.
Vale, Leslie Oldfield. I came to The Alice after she left but I’m well aware of the her story. She contributed to the town and her people. Such a dynamic and interesting woman who was Mayor for so many years through much of the ‘heyday’ era. Lots of historical references to her in media stories and articles. A woman of vision and passion … thanks for the legacy!
There is a leadership saying that influence is more important than titles and Ms Oldfield earned both. A life of healthy risks, reasoned opinions and she projected Alice Springs well publicly.
A great person – sorry that we didn’t see as much of her after Alice Springs as we would have wished.
A good mayor during the best years of my life in Alice Spring – 1983 to 1992. Thank you, Leslie. Bruce.
RIP Dear Leslie, I value our friendship and the great working relationship we established during our Local Government days. My condolences to Alan and your family, I well remember the day of your marriage to Alan that we celebrated in the Old Timers Gardens. Be at peace dear friend, free of pain and suffering. You will always be remembered for your vision and promotion of The Alice and indeed the NT.
Just got this news today 4th May 2012. As PA to E J Connellan Leslie was superb, knowing so well how to handle all that came with EJC with calmness and dignity. A very talented lady who I had the privilege to work with for many years. My condolences to Alan and family.
We met Leslie many years ago while in Alice Springs and again when she visited Colorado and stayed with us in our home. We took her to a Denver Broncos football game at Mile High Stadium, a memorable day we will never forget.
And finally on our honeymoon we stayed with Leslie and Alan at their beautiful farm in Apollo Bay. She was a unique and special person with exuberant energy and love of life. Because of problems with our email, we only learned about her passing today and deeply mourn losing such a beautiful, special friend. Our hearts go out to Alan and your family. Love, Tom and Linda in Colorado USA