Kindness, philanthropy and business acumen: the legacy of Terry Snow

Canberra Airport visionary Terry Snow has died aged 80, leaving a legacy of ‘kindness, philanthropy and business acumen’.

Philanthropist and businessman Terry Snow. Picture: Supplied

Terry Snow has been remembered by his family as a dedicated philanthropist and businessman whose impact on Canberra will always be loved, following his death from natural causes at age 80.

The owner of Canberra Airport and co-founder of the Snow Foundation, Mr Snow recently retired from active management of the airport which he bought from the federal government in 1998.

A statement issued by his heartbroken wife Ginette, daughters Scarlett Gaffey and Georgina Byron and sons Tom Snow and Stephen Byron described him as “a true entrepreneur”.

“When he had an idea, he pursued it doggedly, taking risks and pushing the boundaries of architectural design,” said the family.

His vision was embodied in Canberra Airport which was transformed from a shabby airfield, incapable of landing a Boeing 737, to a gleaming monument befitting of the national capital.

Australian businessman Terry Snow and his son, Tom.

Mr Byron recalled how his father financed the redevelopment of the airport through a non-aviation business park, which gave him the balance sheet strength to seek a bank loan for the rebuild.

“His legacy is the bold projects he undertook, including the developments at Canberra Airport and the airport business parks, Constitution Place, Denman Prospect and Willinga Park on the South Coast,” his family said.

“His unwavering dedication to building outstanding developments reflects a commitment to excellence and quality that will resonate for generations to come.”

As well as his business acumen, Mr Snow would be remembered for his generosity and mentorship, helping to guide numerous people in their businesses and pursuit of their dreams.

One of Australia’s richest people, with an estimated wealth of about $3bn, Mr Snow distributed more than $115 million through his philanthropic ventures in recent years and had committed another $200m.

His family said he lived by his own words “if you see someone struggling you give them a helping hand”.

“Beyond his everyday generosity, his profound dedication to philanthropy began initially in the Canberra region when, in his mid-40s with his brother George, he created The Snow Foundation in 1991,” said the family.

“Over the past 15 years, his generosity extended across Australia as he grew The Snow Foundation and, more recently established Snow Medical, driven by a deep sense of social responsibility.”

Beyond his public life, Mr Snow was a dedicated family man who loved simple pleasures such as camping, fishing and bushwalking.

An aeroplane and helicopter pilot, he took up cycling in his 40s and rode across Australia, and then took up horseriding at 65.

“I’m feeling heartbroken,” said Mrs Snow.

“Terry was such a wonderful, loving husband, father and grandfather. He was an incredible man with such a passion for life. I’m so proud of his achievements and what he’s contributed to our community.”

Mr Byron, the Canberra Airport CEO, said he felt lucky to have been able to take the journey he had with his father.

“Terry leaves a legacy of kindness, philanthropy, and business excellence,” he said.

“His spirit will continue to inspire us all, and his contributions will be felt for many years to

come.”

Originally published as Kindness, philanthropy and business acumen: the legacy of Terry Snow