By Matthew Pearce
Tributes are flowing for Rockhampton Region councillor Neil Fisher following his death on Monday.
Cr Fisher was admitted to Rockhampton Hospital on Saturday, 27 April, after suffering a stroke at his home in North Rockhampton and was also battling cancer.
He had taken a leave of absence from his council duties in recent months.
In a statement released to LG Focus’ sister paper CQ Today, Cr Fisher’s family said:
“It is with deep sadness that we share that our beloved husband, father and grandfather Neil Fisher passed away yesterday following a long battle with cancer,” they said.
“Neil was an extraordinary individual who loved and lived every moment of every day. He loved people, he loved their stories, their passions and their interests.
“He was a dedicated servant of our community and most importantly, the heart of our family.
“We would like to thank the staff at Rockhampton Hospital for their exemplary care and support over recent weeks. They have been nothing short of outstanding.
“We would also like to thank everyone who has reached out and offered their thoughts and prayers during this period.
“Neil’s last weeks were spent surrounded by friends and family with his warmth and genuine interest in those around him continuing to shine through.
“While we appreciate that many across the community will feel this loss and will want to offer their condolences and support, we ask for privacy for our family at this time.”
Cr Fisher was one of Rockhampton’s long-serving councillors, serving across many portfolios and roles during his career.
He 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.
Cr Fisher served as Deputy Mayor of Rockhampton Regional Council for four years from 2020 and held a number of key councillor portfolios throughout his career, including waste, water and Rockhampton Airport.
Rockhampton Mayor Tony William called Cr Fisher 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 said.
“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 effervescence 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.”
Capricornia MP Michelle Landry said he was saddened to learn of the passing of her friend, Neil Fisher.
“Councillor Fisher was not only a dedicated public servant but also a cherished friend to many within our community,” she said.
“Neil served our community with unwavering commitment and integrity. His passion for public service and his relentless efforts to make the Rockhampton region even better was truly inspiring. Over the years, Neil’s contributions have left an indelible mark on our local government and the community at large.
“One of Neil’s most significant achievements was his passionate advocacy for the Rockhampton Airport.
“But beyond his professional accomplishments, Neil was a man of great character, compassion, and warmth. He touched the lives of many with his kindness and generosity. As a friend, Neil was always there with a listening ear, wise counsel, and a heart full of empathy.”
Cr Fisher was 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.
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, he was a father of four and was involved in his family’s plant nursery business for over 45 years.
He was the gardening expert with Seven News Central Queensland and 4RO and served as garden columnist at The Morning Bulletin for more than two decades.
Moving over to CQ Today at its launch in 2020, his weekly column has been a favourite with readers.
Cr Fisher’s family says further information on funeral and memorial arrangements will be made available in the coming days.
A condolence book will be available at Rockhampton City Hall, Bolsover St, Rockhampton, from Wednesday, 3 July, for those who wish to share their thoughts and sympathies.
