Michael Coffey O.A.M

It is with great sadness we report that Michael Coffey O.A.M. passed away unexpectedly and peacefully on January 11, 2021, aged 79.

A father of three, a keen golfer and successful businessman, Michael is perhaps best remembered for his incredible contributions to the community throughout his life. His services to business and the community were recognised in the Australia Day Honours in 2015, where he was awarded the Order of Australia Medal.

Michael’s impact began early in his career. He was a key member of the CSIRO team that revolutionised food preservation and transportation through containerisation. He was then invited to join the company that would become P&O Containers where he played a significant role in developing Australia’s trade relations with the Middle East and the Indian sub-continent. Michael led Australian trade missions to countries such as Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Pakistan and Iran in the very early days Australia’s trade development with those countries.

In his retirement from P&O he served on and led Boards of several community organisations including Karitane, Carrington Centennial Care and Liverpool Catholic Club, serving as President of the latter from 2016 until his recent passing.

Michael is survived by his wife of 54 years, three children and seven grandchildren. His memorial service will be shared via livestream (link below) at 11am on January 27 for those who wish to acknowledge the significant personal and professional contributions made throughout his life. Donations to The Heart Foundation would be appreciated.