AN emotional Peter Mitchell fought back tears as he delivered a heartfelt tribute to respected Redland City Council staff member and community leader Richard “Rich” Cahill during last week’s Council meeting.
Speaking on behalf of councillors, staff and the wider community, Cr Mitchell described Mr Cahill as “simply a good human” whose impact extended far beyond council chambers and spreadsheets.
Mr Cahill joined Redland City Council in 2015 and served in several senior leadership positions, including acting Chief Financial Officer, Group Manager City Operations and Executive Officer Community and Organisational Services before most recently serving as Procurement Services Manager.
Cr Mitchell said Mr Cahill had earned enormous respect across the organisation for both his professionalism and his character.
“Richard was a dedicated professional who served Council and our community with integrity, commitment and care,” he said.
“He was widely respected for the way he conducted himself and for the professionalism he brought to his work.”
But it was when Cr Mitchell moved beyond the formal Council tribute and began speaking about his friend that emotions overwhelmed the chamber.
“We have lost one of the good ones,” he said.
“I’m starting to cry now – he would love to see a grown man cry publicly.”
Cr Mitchell described Mr Cahill as a devoted husband, father, son and friend whose family sat at the centre of his life.
“He was a proud and loving husband and an extraordinary father,” he said.
“His family was at the centre of his life, and the care, encouragement and respect he showed them was reflected in the strong, grounded and capable people they are today.”
The tribute painted a vivid picture of a man who embraced life with humour, enthusiasm and generosity from his love of V8 Holdens, motorbikes and campfires to themed parties complete with Foo Fighters music, karaoke and air guitar.
Cr Mitchell also spoke at length about Mr Cahill’s enormous contribution to the sporting community through Sharks Triathlon Club, where he served as president, life member, coach and mentor.
A 16-time Ironman finisher, Mr Cahill inspired countless athletes, from elite competitors to first-time participants, through encouragement, discipline and quiet leadership.
Cr Mitchell, himself an Ironman competitor, reflected on Mr Cahill’s legacy within the club and wider community.
“Richard was more than a coach. He was a mentor, a guide and a friend,” he said.
“He had an unwavering belief in people and gave freely of his time and encouragement to help others succeed.”
As the chamber fell silent, Cr Mitchell concluded with a final tribute to the man he called a close friend.
“He will be remembered not only for what he achieved, but for how he lived with integrity, kindness, humour and genuine care for others. He will be deeply missed.”
