Fire mourn the loss of Mike Carney

The JCU Townsville Fire are mourning the loss of one of their biggest supporters, Mike Carney, who has sadly passed away.

One of North Queensland’s most well respected businessmen, Mr Carney, 70, died earlier this week following a brave battle with cancer.

Despite the illness, he was regularly spotted at Townsville Stadium throughout the 2016/17 WNBL season, cheering on the Fire as they chased a historic three-peat.

While he will forever be synonymous with the Toyota dealership that bears his name, Mr Carney’s legacy extends well beyond the automotive industry, establishing himself as one of the city’s biggest supporters and philanthropists.

Over the past two decades, he has played a pivotal role in the Fire’s success, serving as a Major Partner including a recent upgrade for a further two seasons.

Fire General Manager Richard Goodbody said Mr Carney’s passing was a blow not just for the club, but the community at large.

“The North Queensland community woke this morning all the poorer for the loss of Mike Carney,” Mr Goodbody said.

“He was a giant amongst men, a person whose legacy impacted almost every part of our community and we will forever be indebted for the contribution that he has made to our club.

“When I first met Mike he told me that we were not the LA Lakers – and he was right but he didn’t mean it in a disparaging way – he understood what we mean to our community and his support of our club was unwavering.

“He was a passionate North Queenslander, a Fire supporter who rarely missed a game, and his generosity knew no end.

“Our condolences are extended to Lindy, Chris and Kym and the wider Carney family on their tragic loss.”