Queensland Premier, David Crisafulli says the state is poorer for the passing of former Minister, Mark McArdle.
Mr McArdle (pictured), who served as the Member for Caloundra for 16 years, passed away today.
“Mark loved his Caloundra community and his deep connections remained right up until his passing,” the Premier said in a statement.
“From 2012 to 2015, Mark was Queensland’s Minister for Energy and Water Supply, when he developed a plan to secure the State’s water supply and a plan to ensure a more resilient and cost-effective energy system.
“I witnessed how much his responsibilities meant to him. He was always well prepared and made each decision on the basis of what was right for Queensland, free from political consequences.”
“The merger of the Liberal and National Parties would not have happened in Queensland without his bravery.
“I extend my deepest condolences to Mark’s wife Judy, his family and friends.”
The Sunshine Coast MP announced his decision to retire from politics ahead of the 2020 state election, saying the time had come for “younger blood” to step up to the mark.
In 2013, the then-Energy and Water Supply Minister took time off to receive treatment for prostate cancer.
“It pains me to hear the upsetting news about the passing of Mark McArdle,” Queensland Attorney-General, Deb Frecklington said in a social media post this afternoon.
“He had the community’s great respect and served the LNP with diligence for many years as the Member for Caloundra, later becoming the Deputy Leader of the Opposition.
“Mark was a mentor and a friend, and I always valued his guidance. My thoughts are with Judy and the rest of Mark’s family.”
Current Member for Caloundra, Kendall Morton, also expressed her sadness at the news of Mr McArdle’s death.
“Mark was the State Member for Caloundra for 16 years, and very well loved and respected by the electorate. Our thoughts are with Judy and his family, as well as the entire Liberal National Party community,” she said.
“Mark had a significant impact on so many of us, and a brilliant speaker who took us all on a journey. He was captivating, and I’ll be forever grateful he was with me on my own election night, running the tally room.
“Thinking of you Mark, and thank you for your service.”
