Rockhampton councillor Neil Fisher suffers stroke, remains in hospital for cancer treatment

Hailed an ‘absolute champion for our region’, Neil Fisher is asking for privacy for his family and himself as he focuses on his treatment. Read more

Councillor Neil Fisher has revealed he remains in hospital undergoing cancer treatment after suffering a stroke in April. Picture: Aden Stokes

Rockhampton’s friendliest green thumb councillor, Neil Fisher, has released a statement requesting privacy for his family after the cancer survivor was hospitalised following a stroke.

The former deputy mayor said he was recovering from the stroke that hospitalised him on April 27, explaining owing to his existing medical conditions he would remain in hospital and continue his cancer treatment.

“My cancer treatment is mine, my family’s and my doctors’ focus at this time,” Cr Fisher said.

Cr Fisher has taken a leave of absence from council.

Long-time colleague and friend, Mayor Tony Williams, said his thoughts and “the thoughts of councillors, council staff and the broader community are with him and his family during this period”.

Councillor Neil Fisher with Mayor and good friend Tony Williams.

“Neil is an absolute champion for our region and the local government sector so I know that his absence at the council table - regardless of the time - will be noticed by us all,” he said.

“Finally, I want to wish Neil and his family all the best for the weeks and months ahead.”

Cr Fisher thanked his colleagues and community for their thoughts and support.

“I also want to thank our friends, the local community, and the many people I know near and far who have reached out and offered their well-wishes,” he said.

“I would like to respectfully ask for privacy for my family and I as I focus on my health.”

Neil Fisher at the Rockhampton Airport.

Cr Fisher said he would provide a further update on this when he knows more.

He praised the Rockhampton Hospital health professionals treating him since he suffered the stroke at his North Rockhampton home.

“There I received truly first-class care and attention from our local doctors, nurses and medical professionals and I want to acknowledge and pay tribute to each and every one of them.

“It is at times like these that you see the very best of our healthcare staff and they are truly remarkable.”

Cr Fisher said council was available to help locals in his division and his “colleagues have generously offered to assist my local residents and businesses with any issues they have”.

Cr Williams said it was important Cr Fisher focused on his health and he asked that the community respect his request for privacy.

“During his leave of absence, residents and businesses in Division 2 are welcome to contact myself or any of our councillors with their matters,” he said.

“Council officers are also available to answer queries and respond to issues on 07 4932 9000.”

Originally published as Rockhampton councillor Neil Fisher suffers stroke, remains in hospital for cancer treatment