Eminent Queensland MP dies at 76

Former Queensland MP Warren Pitt has died. He was 76.

The member for Mulgrave in north Queensland served 17 years in the state legislature over two stints between 1989 and 2009.

Throughout the tenure he held portfolios including main roads, local government, communities and disability services and business, industry and regional development.

Former minister and long-time member for parliament Warren Pitt has died at 76. Credit: File photo

Son Curtis Pitt – who later represented the same electorate – confirmed the news on Friday morning.

“After fighting the good fight his entire life, he laid down his gloves in the early hours of this morning, passing away peacefully,” he said in a statement.

“He lived an extraordinary life, doing so much for others and creating a positive impact on this world.

“Thank you to those people who were a part of Dad’s life – you were important because you made his life richer and fuller for knowing you.

“I never had to look too far to find a hero, or to aspire to aim high. In our Dad, greatness has been sitting next to us, holding our hands and guiding us our entire lives.”

Pitt is survived by wife Linda, and two children Curtis and Dionne.

In 2006 Pitt was diagnosed with non-Hodgkins lymphoma and underwent intensive stem cell therapy to complete a full recovery.

He later said a friend’s passing from the same disease convinced him to retire from politics.

“To be honest with you, I got the news that a friend who had contracted the same illness that I had, had passed away,” Pitt said.

“And I guess that drove home to me the vulnerability to me of human beings and the need to take this opportunity now that I have a full remission to enjoy a full and fruitful life.”

In his youth, Pitt played rugby league at Foley Shield level for North Queensland and participated in A-Grade cricket, athletics, golf, basketball, tennis and boxing.

Terry James, a former mayor of Cairns who now represents Mulgrave as an LNP MP, posted an online tribute on Friday afternoon.

“I was so very sorry to hear news from Curtis Pitt MP about the passing of his dad Warren Pitt,” James said.

“Warren was a true gentleman whose values transcended both sides of politics.

“I had many dealings with your father during my early days as a councillor. His legacy remains strong in the seat of Mulgrave. He will be deeply missed.”

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