General News
28 October, 2019
Martin Tenni – a life to remember
MAREEBA lost one of its most respected community members last week as Martin Tenni OAM sadly passed away.
MAREEBA lost one of its most respected community members last week as Martin Tenni OAM sadly passed away.
Not only will he be remembered for his extensive involvement in the Mareeba community, he will also be held in high regard long after his passing for his exceptional political career that continues to leave its mark today.
Mr Tenni began his political career in 1970 with the Mareeba Shire Council, becoming the council’s Chairperson in 1976.
Mr Tenni also had a stint as the National Party candidate for Barron River from 1974-1976, before making the move into multiple ministerial roles from 1983 until his retirement in 1989.
His 19-year political career was one to be admired, as he spearheaded a number of key projects in Far North Queensland.
“I knew Martin very well, having served with him in the Parliament from 1986,” Mareeba Shire Council Mayor Tom Gilmore said.
“I’ll say this for Martin, he was vigorous and was always on the job.
“He always had strong opinions, as evidenced by the fact that he took everybody on to build the road up to Cape Tribulation – that was his doing an he got it done irrespective of complaint from other people.
“And as a result, we have a marvellous outcome.
“He also did the Rex Range, and despite the objections he went ahead and finished that project – which is an illustration of the strength of character of Martin Tenni.”
In addition to his reputation in the region’s political arena, Mr Tenni’s was also very wellrespected businessman, having owned and operated Tenni’s Hardware.
Martin Tenni’s advocacy for the region is one that ought to be remembered for a long time, and there are many communities in Far North Queensland who can thank him for changing theirs for the better.
