January 27th, 2023 – the day the world lost one of the most influential, charismatic, humble men we have ever had the privilege to know.
After a short battle with stage 4 bowel cancer, Gold Coast local Matthew Schneider sadly passed away, leaving behind a legacy and a reputation for being known as ‘Mr Everywhere’.
For Lacey Group, we are especially saddened by the loss not only of an advisor, a colleague and an expert in city planning but also a great friend.
Although his ‘day job’ was as the Director of Urbis Gold Coast, Matthew had a personal interest in the future of our city. He played an integral role in shaping its future growth, assisting with many projects as a town planning consultant and strategic adviser.
After joining the Lacey Group Advisory Committee in 2021, Managing Director of Lacey Group, Adam Lacey said he was instantly taken back by Matthew’s industry insight and expertise.
“His wealth of knowledge and skill as the Director at Urbis, as well as his extensive network of industry professionals made Matthew a wonderful contributor to the Lacey Group Advisory Committee, and I highly valued his guidance and support,” Adam said.
“Despite being so highly regarded and in demand, Matthew always made the time for me and my business and I will forever be grateful for that.”
A father of three young children, Matthew put his professional positions on hold last year to undergo treatment in a battle to extend his time with his family.
As a father of three young children himself, Adam felt that he needed to help and in September last year committed to running 50 kms in order to raise money for Matthew’s family.
Lacey’s Run for Matty raised $14,000 after running for more than eight hours through the Gold Coast Hinterland, completing the Coastal High 50.
“Knowing the seriousness of the situation and how humble Matthew could be, I was delighted when he accepted my offer to raise some money for his family,” Adam said.
More than a professional relationship, Adam, like many Gold Coasters, has lost a good friend in the passing of Matthew, and he will be sorely missed within the community.
“Matthew’s passing touched me more than I had expected. He was a wonderful human being, humble and thoughtful, that we lost far too soon.
“I was glad to see so many friends and colleagues attend his funeral service and I look forward to seeing those beautiful children grow into equally amazing human beings.”
