Paying Tribute to Former Lord Mayor and Business Leader Jeff McCloy
- intouch Magazine
- Jun 30
- 2 min read
It is with great sadness to learn of the recent loss of former Lord Mayor Jeff McCloy, who passed away on Friday, 27 June, following a courageous battle with motor neurone disease.
A towering figure in the Hunter’s development and construction sectors, Jeff was more than a businessman — he was a force of nature whose vision reshaped the skyline and spirit of Newcastle. From boardrooms to building sites, council chambers to community causes, Jeff left a lasting mark on every part of the city he loved.
Serving as Lord Mayor from 2012 to 2014, he was a bold and outspoken advocate for urban renewal — famously campaigning for the removal of the city’s heavy rail line to unlock new growth. His leadership played a crucial role in sparking Newcastle’s transformation from a post-industrial town to a thriving, forward-looking city.
As one of the region’s most visionary and successful businesspeople, Jeff had a rare ability to turn big ideas into reality. His drive, his passion for Newcastle, and his deep commitment to the community will be long remembered.
One of Jeff’s proudest achievements was delivering the John Hunter Hospital ahead of schedule after the 1989 earthquake — a pivotal moment in the city’s recovery.
His enthusiasm for his hometown extended far beyond politics, and he was a generous donor to local charities and the arts, often helping individuals quietly and without fanfare. Like many bold leaders, he had his critics, but no one could question his commitment to Newcastle.
Raised in Belmont and a civil engineering graduate from Newcastle University, Jeff joined his father Don’s construction firm in the 1970s before taking the helm in the mid-80s. Under his leadership, the McCloy Group delivered hundreds of major projects — from residential communities to retirement living — across the Hunter.
Beyond bricks and mortar, his philanthropic legacy is equally profound. From health and education to sports, welfare, and the arts, Jeff’s generosity uplifted countless lives and supported emerging talent across the region.
In 2009, he received the City of Newcastle Medal for his distinguished service and extraordinary contributions to the community.
Our thoughts go out to Jeff’s surviving children, Charlie, Louise, William, Hayley and Blake and his eight grandchildren.
