Hedges was elected as an Alderman in 1956 and was elected Mayor in 1957-58 and 1958-59 and Deputy Mayor 1956-57. He died on 14 July 1960, while still serving as an Alderman.
The following tribute was made to Alderman Hedges by Strathfield Council (Meeting minutes 19 July 1960):
The Mayor (Alderman Bruce Ward), stated that it was with profound sorrow that he had to report the death of Alderman Stanley Nelson Hedges, on the 14th July, 1960.
The Mayor then moved that a message of the sincere sympathy of this Council be conveyed to Mrs. Hedges and her Family in the great loss that they have sustained by the death of her Husband and their Father.
This Motion was carried unanimously, the Members standing in silence.
The Mayor then referred to the great public service rendered by Alderman Hedges and to his marked achievements in the comparatively short time he was a Member of this Council.
The Mayor stated that whilst he liked to think that he gave Alderman Hedges some assistance, he knew that he, Alderman Hedges, gave him a great deal of assistance by reason of his experience and wisdom. He was an extremely good, easy and pleasant man with whom to work. He was at all times perfectly frank, courageous in his statements and did not purposely seek popularity, but he always found respect. ·
His services to the Council were substantial. He was active in the formation and development of the West Strathfield Bowling Club and the work he did for that Club will serve as a memorial to him.
The Council, in naming Hedges Avenue in the Northcote Sub-division after him, has perpetuated his memory.
His widow will be supported and sustained by her family of four sons, who are devoted to her and who will support her now. The family loss is great, but their consolation is the fact that her husband and their father has at last been released from a long and agonising ordeal.
The Mayor continued that those who were close to him knew what he suffered and how hard he fought back. He frequently spoke of his return to the Council as though it were imminent, but he was never allowed that opportunity. He fought hard and well, but unfortunately succumbed to his illness.
A great personality had left the Council Chamber. The Mayor added that he had Moved this simple Motion so that members may record as best they can their thoughts of the services rendered by an Alderman whom he, the Mayor, believed was truly out standing.
The Mayor’s remarks were supported by the Deputy Mayor, Alderman B. Calverley, and Aldermen Weiss, Cartwright and Humphries.
It was then resolved – on the Motion of the Mayor – that as a mark of respect to their deceased colleague, the Council do now adjourn until Friday, the 22nd July 1960.
Strathfield Heritage 