NSW Myall Lakes MP Stephen “Brommy” Bromhead dies, 65

A long-serving Nationals MP from NSW has died after a long battle with illness.

National Party MP Stephen Bromhead.

Former Nationals MP Stephen Bromhead has died following a battle with mesothelioma.

The former member for Myall Lakes was described as a “quintessential” Nationals MP by Premier Dominic Perrottet, who paid tribute to the long serving politician.

“On behalf of the NSW Government and the people of NSW I extend my deepest condolences to the family of Stephen Bromhead MP, who passed away yesterday after a battle with mesothelioma,” Mr Perrottet said.

“In particular, I extend my deepest sympathies to Stephen’s wife Sue, to my Nationals colleagues, and to the people of Myall Lakes who are mourning the loss of a dear friend and loyal member.”

Mr Bromhead announced in August last year he would retire from state politics after 12 years as the member for Myall Lakes as his condition worsened.

“While he was naturally a warm and welcoming person, as the Nationals’ Whip Stephen made good use of the fearsome tenacity learned in his former career as a detective,” Mr Perrottet said.

Member for Myall Lakes Stephen Bromhead. Picture: AAP

“When Stephen first shared the news of his diagnosis, it came as a huge shock to all of us.

“Stephen’s grace and strength over the past year has been an inspiration to so many, and I know he has served as an extraordinary mentor to many Nationals members and to his staff over that time and throughout his career.”

Stephen is survived by his wife Sue and their seven children.

NSW Nationals leader Paul Toole paid tribute to his “mate”.

“Stephen Bromhead devoted a lifetime to serving his community; as a registered nurse and police officer, as a volunteer firefighter and in his almost 12 years as the Member for Myall Lakes,” Mr Toole said.

“Brommy, like me, was part of the class of Nats MPs who entered Parliament in 2011 determined to make a difference. He did not disappoint.”

Labor leader Chris Minns said the passing of Mr Bromhead was deeply saddening.

“I want to pass on the commiserations of myself and NSW Labor not just to Stephen’s family including his wife Sue, but to the community he worked so hard for and loved so much,” he said.

“Stephen’s passing is a huge loss for his community and also for our state.”