Biography
Councillor John Furnell is well known throughout the community, having served as a paramedic in the Burdekin for over 20 years. He is currently serving his second term as a Councillor for Burdekin Shire Council, having first been elected in 2020.
Although now medically retired from paramedicine, John continues to work as a Registered Nurse at Ayr Hospital. He is a dedicated volunteer and an active member of numerous community organisations. In recognition of his service, he was awarded Burdekin Citizen of the Year in 2020. John also served as a Captain in the Royal Australian Army Nursing Corps – Army Reserves (8544982).
John moved to the Burdekin in 1986 and, together with his wife Lisa, operated LJ's Pizza Inn for five years. In 1994, they purchased Burdekin Swim School, where they continue to teach and support local families—now celebrating 30 years of service.
He holds a Diploma of Teaching from the Australian College of Physical Education, a Bachelor of Health Science in Nursing from Southern Cross University, and a Master of Health Science, majoring in Health Promotion, from Queensland University of Technology.
John's key areas of interest include health, youth, ageing adults, business, sports, arts, and culture. He is passionate about seeing the Burdekin Shire grow through continuous improvement across all aspects of the community.
John and Lisa have three adult children, all living in the Burdekin with their partners, and are proud grandparents to six grandchildren.
Committee Memberships
- Burdekin Community Sector Network
- Burdekin Local Disaster Management Group
- Burdekin Shire Youth Council
- Community Grants Panel
- Community, Sporting and Cultural Advisory Group
- Regional Arts Development Fund (RADF) Committee (Chair)