Queensland’s local government sector is mourning the passing of four-term Rockhampton Regional Councillor and former Deputy Mayor, Neil Fisher, who passed away yesterday following a long battle with cancer.
Local Government Association of Queensland (LGAQ) Chief Executive Officer, Alison Smith said Councillor Fisher (pictured) served on the former Rockhampton City Council, before being elected to Rockhampton Regional Council in 2012, and leaves behind a significant legacy.
“Neil was an enthusiastic and admired councillor, whose commitment to the Rockhampton community and wider local government sector will be long remembered,” Ms Smith said.
“The local government family has lost a passionate, popular and generous champion.
“His level-headed leadership of Council following the (then) Mayor’s sudden resignation in 2020 was typical of Neil – unfussed, exemplary and ever concerned for the welfare of others.
“Neil was a committed campaigner for his region’s economy, championing the upgrading of the Rockhampton Airport – which now welcomes some 650,000 passengers each year – and the resource and agricultural sectors.”
Ms Smith said Cr Fisher was also an energetic advocate for waste management reform through his leadership of the Local Authority Waste Management Action Committee (LAWMAC), a ground-breaking and successful partnership between regional Queensland councils and more than four dozen waste industry representatives.
“Neil received the 2022 Ross Overton (Rossko) Memorial Award for Excellence in Waste Management, a tremendous honour that showcases achievements and innovation in waste management, recycling and environmental awareness,” Ms Smith said.
“Though he had battled several health challenges in recent years, Neil faced each obstacle placed in his path with remarkable good cheer and an indefatigable spirit.
“We extend our sympathies and warmest good wishes to Neil’s wife Sherrie, their family and friends, as well his council colleagues.”
In a touching statement, Rockhampton Mayor, Tony Williams formally acknowledged the passing of Cr Fisher.
“Neil was a friend, a colleague and a support to so many across the community,” said Mayor Williams.
“He was unique. Easy to say but it is simply the truth. He loved this community – its people and its places.
“I worked with Neil for more than two decades and over that time I saw firsthand this love of people, their lives and their passions overflow from him. It was there in every conversation, every discussion, every time someone came to him with a problem or issue.
“He was curious about others, excited by challenges, committed to solving problems and had an effervescent for helping people.
“He was the very best in the tradition of local government and council – a champion of the community and for the community.
“He was a person who walked towards big problems and not away from them. He was always willing to engage in debate, in discussion and consider how – as Councillors and leaders in the community – we could help make people’s lives better.
“This earned my friendship and respect and the friendship and respect of so many across Queensland.
“Neil will be greatly missed – near and far.
“Let his unwavering commitment to others serve as an inspiration to you. Strive to make things better, to love people and our community, and above all be a champion of others and our Region.
“Finally, Neil’s greatest achievement and most cherished love was his family. He loved them and was a proud husband, father and grandfather.
“I want to acknowledge them during this difficult time. Our thoughts are with them. Vale Neil. You will be missed,” the Mayor’s statement concluded.
A condolence book will be available at Rockhampton City Hall, Bolsover Street Rockhampton from tomorrow (Wednesday 3 July).
