Wagner family’s $826m make it ninth on rich list

AIRPORT: Family is pushing ahead with Wellcamp construction

THE fortune of Toowoomba’s Wagner family appears bound for the stratosphere, with the construction industry giant’s inclusion in the top 10 of Queensland’s rich list.

Reports have placed the family’s wealth at $826 million, earning them ninth position on the list.

The family is pushing ahead with construction of an airport at Wellcamp which they are confident will offer regular passenger airline services.

Toowoomba property developer and philanthropist Clive Berghofer was named at number 32 on the list with a fortune of $320 million.

The 78-year-old said avoiding debt was a part of the reason for his financial success.

“The easiest thing to do is borrow money,” Mr Berghofer said.

“The hardest thing to do is pay it back.”

He said he gained satisfaction from helping charities, as well as sporting and community groups, with donations.

“My motto has been I want to produce things better, cheaper and quicker than anybody else,” Mr Berghofer said.

Clive Berghofer: My motto has been I want to produce things better, cheaper and quicker

Other entrants on the list included University of Southern Queensland Chancellor Bobbie Brazil and her husband Lyn Brazil at number 58, as well as the McLean family from Pittsworth at number 100.