Councillors Barry Ryan and Ron Clarke have put away their council business papers for the last time, bringing to an end a combined career as councillors of 46 years, after deciding not to re-stand at the September 13 election.

Barry Ryan has served on Gloucester Shire Council for 25 years, and was Mayor for a total of 17, while Ron Clarke served 21 years.

Both men took a few moments to reflect on their time as councillors on Wednesday evening as tributes flowed from Mayor Julie Lyford and fellow councillors, paying tribute to the work they have done, as councillors, for the community.

Cr Clarke summed up his involvement in local government in just a few words.

“It’s a damn long time, a large part of my life,” he said.

He said he felt a councillors needed 12 years on council to be effective.

“Four years to learn, four years to get in and do it, and four years to be the old guard,” he said.

Cr Clarke said over the years a lot has changed and a lot has been achieved.

“I’ve tried to represent the community as best I can,” he said.

Of his quarter-century involvement Cr Ryan said he never thought he spend so long on council.

“It’s a long while. I never intended to serve more than a couple of terms, but it grows on you.

“The more you’re involved, the more enjoyment you get out of it. When you achieve something, it’s a great feeling,” he said.

Cr Ryan said of the six councils he’s been involved with it has always been a team effort.

“It’s been good, a team, a team which also includes the staff,” he said.

He said one of the strengths of Gloucester Shire Council is the lack of party politics.

“I’ve enjoyed the whole lot. No doubt I will miss it, but I’ve eased up over the last couple of years,” he said.