Former Caloundra MP Mark McArdle has died aged 68.
Mr McArdle served in State Parliament from 2004 until he stepped down ahead of the 2020 election.
He was Energy and Water Supply Minister in the Newman Government and took sick leave in 2013 to have surgery for prostate cancer.
As the leader of the Queensland Liberal Party he played a significant role in the formation of the LNP in 2008.
The Premier David Crisafulli said Queensland is poorer for the passing of Mark McArdle.
“Mark loved his Caloundra community and his deep connections remained right up until his passing,” he said.
“The merger of the Liberal and National Parties would not have happened in Queensland without his bravery.
“I extend my deepest condolences to Mark’s wife Judy, his family and friends,” Mr Crisafulli said.
