Kevin Byrne: Former Cairns Regional Council mayor passes away

Kevin Michael Byrne was an Australian politician who served as mayor of Cairns from 1992 to 1995, and then from 2000 to 2008.

Byrne graduated in 1969 from Officer Cadet School, Portsea, Victoria (OCS Portsea) with an Australian Army commission. He was awarded the Sword of Honour for Leadership in that year.

His 17-year military career included Australian and overseas postings to Malaysia, Singapore, Papua New Guinea, Rhodesia, and South Vietnam.

Byrne was the subject of media attention and controversy for involvement with property developers, attitudes towards racial issues, and his approach to government and the electorate.

Some examples of the unproven allegations include; Allegations of racism, Contravened electoral policies, Close ties with developers, Ethical misconduct by his wife, and Ignoring disaster risk advice.

Kevin Byrne: Former Cairns Regional Council mayor passes away

Kevin Byrne, who served two stints as Cairns Regional Council mayor for 11 years between 1992 to 2008, died in Cairns Private Hospital on Thursday. He was 74.

Mr Byrne is being remembered by family and friends as a devoted civic leader unafraid to make contentious decisions.