Former Councillor Casey Remembered

It is with heavy hearts that the Mackay community remembers the life and service of Kevin Casey, a dedicated former councillor whose impact resonated deeply within the Mackay community.

Mr Casey embarked on his journey in local governance when he was first elected to the Mackay City Council in 2004, later transitioning to serve on the amalgamated Mackay Regional Council from 2008 to 2020. His commitment to public service spanned 16 years, during which he devoted himself to addressing the needs of the community he loved. Kevin's tenure witnessed the passage of four mayors, six CEOs, and 27 fellow councillors, reflecting his steadfast dedication and enduring presence in council chambers.

Hailing from a family with a longstanding interest in politics, Mr Casey inherited a legacy of civic engagement from his uncle, who served as a Member for Mackay for 26 years. Throughout his tenure, his proudest moments stemmed from his ability to listen to and uplift the voices of the community. In an interview with 7News Mackay upon announcing his retirement in 2020, Mr Casey reflected on his most cherished aspect of public service: "The thing I most enjoyed was helping the little person, who thought their problem was a mountain, and in actual fact it’s only a little pimple."

As well as being a devoted husband and father, he was a driving force behind the Mackay Regional Council's sports expo, a unique event that he chaired with passion and dedication.

On Sunday, February 11, 2024, Kevin Casey passed away from acute respiratory failure due to stage four metastatic lung cancer.

A host of councillors paid their respects to Mr Casey online and at his funeral service which was held last Friday.

Cr Alison Jones served two terms on council with Mr Casey and said he will be sadly missed.

“Kev was a man that did what he said he would, always honouring a gentleman handshake. He led by example, and it was that, that I admired about him,” Cr Jones said.

Deputy Mayor Karen May has known Mr Casey since 2004 also served with him on council for eight years. She conveyed her condolences to his wife, Tricia, and their children.

“Kevin was a great advocate and champion of the North Queensland Games,” Cr May said.

During his 16 years in local government, he played a huge role in making sure our community had the opportunity to compete at the highest level that the games provided.

He was also a great community councillor always making himself available to meet with community members.

Cr Belinda Hassan didn’t serve with Mr Casey however has known him and his family for many years.

“Kev was the epitome of a community-focussed Councillor,” Cr Hassan said.

He served his community tirelessly, and never had a bad word to say about anyone.

“I certainly looked up to him as a role model, and admired the time and effort he put into everything.

“A good man, who will be sadly missed.

Kevin's unwavering commitment to the betterment of Mackay will forever be remembered and cherished by the community he served so faithfully.

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Caption: Kevin Casey (left) with local breakfast radio personality Rob Kidd at the last Sports Expo Mr Casey attended as a councillor in 2020. Photo credit: Mackay Regional Council

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