VALE MATTHEW SCHNEIDER
It is with great sadness that we advise our President and friend, Matthew Schneider, has passed away after a brave battle with cancer, aged just 39 years.
As a Director of Urbis, Matt was a highly-respected town planning consultant and strategic advisor. An industry leader with a passion for the Gold Coast, he was once cited as ‘one of the city’s favourite sons’. Amongst his many credentials were Fellow of Planning Institute of Australia, Industry Fellow of Griffith University, Gold Advisory Board Member for Top 100 Women, Lacey Group Advisory Committee Member, Gold Coast Music Advisory Group Member and Business Advisory Member for Study Gold Coast.
First introduced to Southport Sharks in 2019, Matt presented the Board with a masterplan vision that was truly prodigious. It was quickly realised what an asset he was to the city and was invited to join the Board as a Non-Executive Director when a position became vacant in September 2020.
Following the passing of Dr Alan Mackenzie in May 2022, Matt was appointed President of Southport Sharks, a role which he held with great pride and expertise. Tragically, a few short weeks after his appointment, Matt was diagnosed with stage four bowel cancer. In the subsequent months, he underwent several rounds of treatment, during which he never gave up and was determined to fight to the very end. Whilst enduring the most challenging time of his life, Matt always remained committed to the club and its future. His positivity and strength were inspirational and true to his character. He will be remembered for his outstanding leadership and intelligence.
Matt’s contribution to the city will never be forgotten, and his vision for Southport Sharks will be seen for many years to come. He will be greatly missed by our Board, Management, Players, and Staff, and more widely, by everyone in the community who knew him. We will forever remember the respected leader, a loving family man and a true visionary.
Our sincere condolences are with Matt’s wife, Samantha, their three children, Maggie, Louis and Oliver, his parents Ross and Laurel, and his extended family and close friends.
In Matt’s true words ….. Be kind; but be fierce.
Listen to the ABC Gold Coast Local News tribute featuring William Owen-Jones, Rachel Hancock and Paul Stevens.
Audio courtesy of ABC Gold Coast Local News