THE Hastings Valley has lost one of its tireless champions, with the death of Councillor Lisa Intemann.
Her sudden passing in John Hunter Hospital on 20 March, after what her family said was a “short period of care”, prompted community members to publicly share their gratitude for her 27 years as an elected representative.
They recalled “a feisty fighter” with “steadfast beliefs” who worked to “secure justice for those living in poorly resourced conditions”, and who had the “honesty, bravery and ability to actually listen to the community”.
Cr Intemann, who lived in Wauchope, was also a mother and grandmother.
Port Macquarie-Hastings Mayor Adam Roberts has extended his condolences to her family on behalf of the wider community.
Cr Intemann was first elected in 1995 and served three terms until 2008, when Council entered a four-year administration period.
She was re-elected in 2012; then again in 2016, 2021 and 2024.
A former journalist with the Wauchope Gazette, she was also a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) and held non-executive directorships on organisations including the Hastings Co-op.
Both Cr Roberts and Deputy Mayor Nik Lipovac have shared statements acknowledging their colleague’s community service.
Some of those comments follow.
Mayor Adam Roberts
“Lisa dedicated much of her life to serving the Port Macquarie-Hastings community, and her passion for making our region a better place was evident in everything she did.
“From her early days in the mid-1990s through to her many roles across Council and the community, Lisa brought care, insight and a deep understanding of local issues.
“Lisa’s contribution to public life has left a legacy, and she will be remembered not only for her service, but for the genuine way she connected with people.”
Deputy Mayor Nik Lipovac
“[Lisa] would speak bluntly, directly and honestly, without softening her language to spare feelings or avoid confrontation.
“I respected her work ethic, in addition to her incredible local knowledge and willingness to support other Councillors when they needed another voice on the floor.
“On hearing a decent case being presented… she would quietly say ‘here, here’ or ‘well said’ and then you knew you were on the right track.
“I will miss those moments, and her post-meeting chats.
“I was greatly impressed by her ability to speak in the Chamber from the heart, backed up with factual details and without notes on just about any subject. I aspire to be that good one day.
“There were some meetings where she was particularly fired up and I would sit back, eat my popcorn, and watch the debate unfold.
“It still brings a smile to my face.
“Vale Lisa Intemann. You will be missed.”
By Sue STEPHENSON
You can help your local paper.
Make a small once-off, or (if you can) a regular donation.
We are an independent family owned business and our newspapers are free to collect and our news stories are free online.
Help support us into the future.
