Former deputy premier Terry Mackenroth loses lung cancer battle

FORMER deputy premier and Labor stalwart Terry Mackenroth has died, just a week after it was revealed he had been diagnosed with a lung tumour.

Former deputy premier and treasurer Terry Mackenroth has died. Picture: Renae Droop

• Terry Mackenroth diagnosed with lung tumour
• Terry Mackenroth reflects on political life

FORMER deputy premier Terry Mackenroth has died.

In a statement tonight, Mr Mackenroth’s family said they were “heartbroken to share the news” of his passing after a brief battle with a lung tumour that was diagnosed last week.

“Terry was determined to fight the cancer however the tumour was too aggressive and, following his recent pneumonia, it was a battle he just couldn’t win this time,” the statement said.

Terry Mackenroth has passed away. Picture: Peter Wallis

Mr Mackenroth fought off cancer 20 years ago but made a full recovery.

“Terry was the loving husband of Mary, father of Rachel and Jessica, father-in-law of Geoff and Andrew, grandfather to Jordan, Jeremy, Emma and Jacob, brother to Rhondda, Gary, Tony and Anne and friend to so many,” his family said.

“He will be remembered for his love and loyalty to his family, his colleagues and many friends.”

Mr Mackenroth was a minister in the Goss government, before later becoming deputy premier and treasurer under the Beattie administration.

After resigning from Parliament in 2005, he was appointed director of Queensland property developer Devine Limited, and held several administrative positions in rugby league.

After Cyclone Larry in 2006, he was appointed to help co-ordinate the recovery efforts in far north Queensland.

Mr Mackenroth was also appointed to help Labor’s transition back to power with the Palaszczuk government’s unexpected election win in 2015.