There has been an outpouring of love for former Albany mayor Dennis Wellington, whose sudden passing on Thursday rocked the Great Southern community.

Mr Wellington, 77, was an elected member of the City of Albany for more than two decades — 12 of which were spent as mayor — and was a passionate advocate for the place he called home.

Tributes have flowed across social media as the news of his death spreads, with everyone from dear friends to passing acquaintances remembering the legacy of the man who strived to make Albany a better place for everyone.

The City of Albany led the tributes, describing Mr Wellington as one of the region’s most respected leaders.

In a statement the city also spoke about his commitment to the Albany community during challenging times like the 2018 Albany bushfires and COVID-19, while his advocacy extended across regional road safety, education, tourism, sustainability and support for local businesses.

Greg Stocks, Mayor of Albany

Mayor Greg Stocks said the passing of his dear friend, who would be remembered not only for his public service but also his “warmth, humility and community spirit”, was being felt deeply across the city.

“While we are still coming to terms with this loss, it is fitting that we recognise the tremendous contribution Dennis made to our community over many decades,” he said.

“Dennis dedicated his life to making Albany a better place.

“From advocating for improved local services and opportunities for our region to supporting community organisations and local businesses, he approached every task with energy, determination and genuine care for people.

“Whether he was representing Albany on the national stage or stopping for a chat during his morning bike ride, Dennis was someone who connected with people and made them feel valued.”

Rebecca Stephens, councillor and former member for Albany

Cr Rebecca Stephens enjoyed a close relationship with Mr Wellington, first as his personal assistant and later working with him on council and in her role as Albany MLA, and said he would be remembered with “great respect and affection”.

“Albany has lost a passionate advocate, a dedicated community leader and a man who devoted more than two decades of his life to serving the city he loved,” she said.

“We didn’t always agree and we certainly had some robust conversations, but we always respected each other’s views, political alliances and opinions.

“Dennis had his own unique way of doing things, but one thing was never in question: his unwavering commitment to Albany.

“Behind the strong views was a big heart and a genuine care for people and the community, and those who knew Dennis well understood that softer side.

“Thank you Dennis for your friendship, your mentorship and your service to Albany.

“I will always be grateful for the opportunity to have known you, worked alongside you and learned from you.”

Peter Watson, former member for Albany

Former Albany MLA Peter Watson said Mr Wellington was leaving a remarkable legacy.

“I was very sad to hear of his passing, he was a tremendous servant for Albany over a long period of time,” he said.

“We didn’t always agree because we came from different sides of the parliament, but we always worked together as one for the betterment of Albany.

“He has left a mark which will be remembered for a very long time.

“When he became mayor, Albany wasn’t going so well but he left it in a very good place for those who follow.”

Lester Coyne, Menang Noongar elder

Menang Noongar elder Lester Coyne remembered Mr Wellington as a trusted friend who worked hard to ensure Indigenous people were involved in Albany’s bicentenary commemorations, and described him as a practical person who was determined to get things done and follow through with his commitments.

“He was very supportive of us (Noongar people) getting involved in the 2026. We got through 2026 thanks to his effort,” he said.

“He was very strong and I think he learnt a lot from us Noongars and he made it work for us.

“He always came around to saying let’s get this done.

“He was a get-this-done type person and we greatly appreciated it.

“I’ve known Dennis for many, many years — we have been great friends.

“He was very supportive and I think our friendship counted for a lot.

“He will be very sadly missed by the Noongar population.”

Alice Rule, Freeman of the City

Fellow Freeman of the City Alice Rule said Mr Wellington was everybody’s friend.

“He was a real asset to Albany,” she said.

“He didn’t stand any nonsense, but everybody still stayed his friend.

“He brought stability to Albany, and his vision was simply to do the best for the town, and that was what I liked about him.

“Whether it was sport or culture, he had an open mind, and I shall certainly miss him.

“I was so delighted when he was awarded Freeman of the City because it was certainly well deserved.”

Scott Leary, Member for Albany

Albany MLA Scott Leary said the loss of Mr Wellington was very sad, but his legacy would forever live on in the city.

“It’s a tragic loss for Albany,” he said.

“Everyone has only got to look around what we currently have and that’s attributed to Dennis and the work he did for Albany.

“I have known him for as long I’ve been in town, and his legacy is all around us.

“I would like to pass my love onto Fran and the extended family.”

Reece Whitby, Minister for the Great Southern

Minister for the Great Southern Reece Whitby passed on his condolences about the highly experienced leader.

“Dennis was a dedicated public servant and passionate advocate for Albany and the Great Southern, committed to securing a strong future for the region,” he said.

“Dennis cared deeply about his community and worked tirelessly to make Albany a better place to live, work and raise a family.

“His outstanding contribution to his community will be remembered for many years to come.

“My heartfelt condolences go to Dennis’ family, friends, former colleagues and the Albany community as they remember and mourn a much loved and valued local leader.”

Terry Eaton, Freeman of the City

Freeman of the City Terry Eaton said generations down the track would prosper thanks to Mr Wellington’s efforts over the years.

“We go way back to when Dennis was playing cricket for Albany and I was playing for other teams,” he said.

“I liked him because you could talk to him and if you could sell him the dream, he would take it on and make it happen.

“He also didn’t need to have his name attached to it — he was doing it for Albany and that was enough.

“He didn’t baulk at the cost of buying the lots when it came to Centennial Park; he just said it had to be done.

“He could always see the bigger picture.”

Rick Wilson, Federal Member for O’Connor

Member for O’Connor Rick Wilson said he was saddened to learn of Mr Wellington’s passing, remembering him as “a friend, a statesman and a lifelong advocate for the community he loved and served faithfully for so long”.

“His tenure was marked by many outstanding achievements including ANZAC Centenary Commemorations, Middleton Beach Coastal Protection, Albany Town Hall Redevelopment, Albany Ring Road and the city’s bicentennial,” he said.

“He will be deeply missed and his legacy will live on through his remarkable record of public service.

“My sincere condolences to Dennis’ family.”