The Maribyrnong community is mourning the loss of Joanna Attard, a much-loved colleague, community champion, and proud Westie, who passed away peacefully after a brave battle with cancer.
Jo was a long-standing Maribyrnong City Council employee, dedicating more than 15 years to making the West a better place. She brought creativity, kindness, and passion to everything she did, leaving her mark on many activities, from festivals and Christmas programs to unique events that brought the community together.
A true advocate for the West, Jo proudly celebrated everything her community had to offer including through her writing for The Westsider, where she shared her love for local businesses, neighbourhood stories, and the people who make Melbourne’s West so special.
Earlier this year, Jo was recognised as a Matriarch of Maribyrnong, an honour that reflects the strength, courage, and community spirit she proudly carried throughout her life.
She will be deeply missed by her husband Geoff, son Leo, her friends, colleagues, and the many people whose lives she touched across Maribyrnong.
So heartbroken to hear this very sad news. Jo was wonderful, I worked with her a bit through a number of community groups when she was at Council. I had no idea she was ill. My deepest condolences to her family and friends. I saw her face and the heading of this piece and thought this might be an article saying Jo was running in the election and I thought she’d be brilliant! I’m in shock, she was had such a good heart and deep love of the westie community. My thoughts and love to all who knew her.