Pioneering developer Frank Morandini passes away aged 81

Pioneering developer Frank Morandini has passed away, leaving a legacy in the Territory spanning decades.

FRANK Morandini, one of Darwin’s pioneering developers, has died aged 81.

His construction resume includes roads, carparks, caravan parks, homes, factories and warehouses.

One of his latest developments, Club Tropical Resort at Lee Point, showed his faith in the Darwin economy was undiminished, 60 years after moving to the Territory.

Throughout his life he remained proud of his part in rebuilding Darwin after Cyclone Tracy.

Frank was in his early 20s when he arrived in Darwin after emigrating to Australia in 1961.

An only child, he was born and grew-up in Friuli in northeast Italy

Much of the next 60 years were spent in Darwin, where his reputation grew hand-in-hand with the city’s progress.

Frank’s long-time friend, former Darwin-based Queen’s Counsel Michael Maurice, said when Frank finished school in Italy, he believed his opportunities were limited to agricultural labouring, which prompted his shift to Australia.

“Frank was a very intelligent man,” he said.

“He used to say he thought in Italian but spoke in English.

“When it came to selecting development projects, Frank was always ahead of the game. He possessed a unique understanding of the Territory economy.”

Michael Maurice remembers the strong relationships Frank developed with many of his employees and the fun of Darwin’s growing years.

A favourite meeting spot with friends was the ‘original’ Roma Bar, which Frank called the ‘The Italian Cultural Centre’.

“Even though he amassed considerable wealth, when it came to his own comfort Frank practised frugality by enjoying very little luxury in the way he lived and never engaged in displays of wealth or boastfulness,” Mr Maurice said.

Late nights spent at a Qantas Ball or Chung Wah Ball were often followed by a late night swim at Nightcliff Beach. Frank is survived by wife Maggie, daughter Amanda and sons Stefano and Alessandro.