GLAMORGAN-Spring Bay Mayor Bertrand Cadart has been recognised for distinguished civil achievements and irreproachable conduct by French Republic President Francois Hollande.
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The prestigious Ordre national du Merite (National Order of Merit) is reserved for French citizens living abroad who have served their communities with diligence.
Cr Cadart is the 18th recipient of the award, out of about four million French nationals living abroad, for 2013.
``During my time abroad, I was conscripted to the French military in the South Pacific, worked as a journalist, featured in a few films and started my own business,'' he said.
``I then visited Tasmania and fell in love with the beautiful scenery and friendly people and decided I wanted to do my bit to improve the community.''
It is yet another pip on the shoulder for Cr Cadart, arguably Tasmania's most colourful mayor, who was this year presented with a Life Members' Award for Meritous Service by Local Government Association of Tasmania.
``When I was first elected mayor, I was faced with tough issues such as water quantity and quality, industry downturns and declining tourist numbers and I vowed to make a change,'' he said.
``I feel some positive changes have been made in those areas and I am humbled to accept the National Order of Merit on behalf of the whole Glamorgan Spring Bay community.''
Cr Cadart has been mayor of the region for the past six years.
