Statement from Rockhampton Mayor Tony Williams: Vale Cr Neil Fisher
It is with truly deep sadness that we acknowledge the passing of Cr Neil Fisher.
Neil was a friend, a colleague and a support to so many across the community.
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.
Neil’s history:
- Cr Neil Fisher was one of Rockhampton’s long-serving Councillors, serving across many portfolios and roles during his career.
- Neil was first elected to the former Rockhampton City Council in 2000 and served until 2004.
- He was then elected to the amalgamated Rockhampton Regional Council in 2012 and re-elected in 2016, 2020 and 2024.
- Neil served as Deputy Mayor of Rockhampton Regional Council for 4 years from 2020 and held a number of key councillor portfolios throughout his career, including waste, water and Rockhampton Airport.
- Neil was also active in many local government groups and organisations, including serving as President of the Local Authority Waste Management Action Committee (LAWMAC) and held close friendships with many Councillors across the sector.
- Neil advocated for and secured many projects during his time on Council. His major passion and advocacy was around the Rockhampton Airport and its continued development and improvement.
- He was also dedicated to increasing and delivering environmental initiatives across the region including improving the health and biodiversity of Rockhampton’s creeks and waterways, and the establishment of new walking tracks and recreation areas.
- Outside council, Neil was a father of four and was involved in his family’s plant nursery business for over 45 years.
**A condolence book will be available at Rockhampton City Hall, Bolsover Street Rockhampton from Wednesday 3 July for those who wish to share their thoughts and sympathies.
