O’Connell’s risk worth taking

HE called it O’Connell’s tomb. The Gold Coast Arts Centre was the greatest legacy Denis O’Connell left behind from his near-three years in office.

It was something he was deeply proud of. But he’d never fail to note his decision to back it, and help fulfil not just his dream – but that of his predecessor, the late Keith Hunt – cost him his career.

The year was 1985. The experienced alderman was facing a tough election against political newcomer Denis Pie.

Knowing it was possibly his last chance to secure funding needed to make the Bundall complex a reality, Mr O’Connell rolled the dice and brought it to the final council meeting before the election.

The council, featuring political heavyweights Betty Diamond and Sir Jack Edgerton, was split, at concerns of a high price tag.

Mr O’Connell used his casting vote to approve the project. It was his greatest moment but ended his political career, with Mr Pie winning the election weeks later.

I got to know Mr O’Connell in my first year as a journalist after I mentioned him in a history column. We spoke regularly, reminiscing about his time in office as well as occasionally weighing in on his successors and City Plan concerns.

The arts centre vote came up regularly but he didn’t hold any regrets. It was a tough decision, taking political courage but paid off, with generations enjoying his legacy.

His passion for the city and kindness will be missed.