Emmet McDermott
Sir Lawrence Emmet McDermott | |
|---|---|
| Born | Template:Birth date Glebe, Australia |
| Died | August 31, 2002 (aged 90) |
| Occupation(s) | Dental professional, politician |
| Years active | 1942–1972 |
| Known for | Lord Mayor of Sydney (1969–1972), dental surgeon, urban conservation advocate |
Sir Lawrence Emmet McDermott KBE (6 September 1911 – 31 August 2002) was an Australian dental professional, political figure, and served as Lord Mayor of Sydney between 1969 and 1972.
Early life
McDermott, born in Glebe as the sixth child among ten siblings, completed his education at St Ignatius' College before attending the University of Sydney, where he qualified with a degree in dentistry. He further advanced his expertise by earning a doctorate in dentistry from Northwestern University in Chicago. Beginning in 1942, he held the position of Consultant Dental Surgeon at Royal Prince Alfred Hospital and also contributed to Sydney Dental Hospital. He led the Australian Dental Association (NSW) as its President from 1960 to 1961 and was recognized as a Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Dental Surgeons.
City of Sydney
Affiliated with the Civic Reform Association, McDermott secured election to the Sydney City Council in 1962 and ascended to the role of Lord Mayor in 1969. His administration prioritized both urban conservation and development, prominently championing the protection of the Queen Victoria Building and spearheading the conversion of Martin Place into a pedestrian-only area.
Later life
In recognition of his contributions to public service, McDermott was honored with a Knight Commander of the Order of the British Empire (KBE) during the 1972 New Year Honours. He died in 2002 at the age of 90, leaving behind a son and daughter from his first marriage as well as his second wife.