Canberra has lost a tireless champion for the preservation of Walter Burley Griffin and Marion Mahony Griffin's vision for our national capital with the death of Brett Odgers OAM.
A Canberran born and bred, Odgers was recognised as Canberra High School's "Outstanding Boy of the Year" in 1956. He grew into the kind of citizen who combined deep knowledge with an unshowy determination to put that knowledge to work for the community.
Odgers dedicated much of his life to ensuring that the original design principles of the Griffins were upheld in the development of Australia's capital. His efforts were recognised with the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) for his service to the community and to heritage preservation.
Friends and colleagues have paid tribute to Odgers as a passionate advocate who worked tirelessly behind the scenes. He was known for his meticulous research and his ability to engage with policymakers and the public alike.
Odgers' passing marks the end of an era for those committed to safeguarding the Griffins' legacy. His contributions will be remembered as instrumental in shaping the character of Canberra as a planned city of beauty and function.
