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Canberra Airport owner Terry Snow AM has passed away at the age of 80.
Snow, who announced in May he was stepping back from active management of the airport after 26 years, died of natural causes this week. He was well-known for his business acumen and philanthropy and is survived by his wife Ginette, four children, 14 grandchildren, and two brothers.
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“His legacy is the bold projects he undertook, including the developments at Canberra Airport and Airport Business Parks, Constitution Place, Denman Prospect and Willinga Park, on the South Coast,” his family said in a statement.
“His unwavering dedication to building outstanding developments reflects a commitment to excellence and quality that will resonate for generations to come.”
Snow was the grandson of Civic’s first general store owner, and according to his family, had an “innovative spirit and relentless pursuit of excellence” in business.
“He transformed the Canberra Airport precinct into a world-class aviation hub after it was purchased from the Federal Government in 1998. He was a true entrepreneur: when he had an idea, he pursued it doggedly, taking risks and pushing the boundaries of architectural design,” they said.
“Terry was more than a successful businessman; he mentored numerous people in their businesses and pursuit of their dreams. Terry’s generosity touched the lives of many, and he lived by his own words ‘if you see someone struggling you give them a helping hand’.”
After his Capital Airport Group purchased Canberra Airport from the federal government, Snow invested $2 billion into aviation, commercial, and retail infrastructure, securing additional domestic routes and Canberra’s first scheduled international services.
On his retirement as executive chairman earlier this year, Snow thanked both his family and his staff for their help in transforming Canberra Airport.
“Looking back from what was literally a humble tin shed in a paddock in 1998 to what we have today, our journey is a testament to our unwavering commitment and passion for quality and excellence. We have transformed our vision into a reality for this city, and it is something of which I am incredibly proud,” he said.
“Some of my proudest moments are not just about the physical developments we have made, but about the team and the culture we have built. The dedication, professionalism, and camaraderie of our staff will continue to uphold the high standards we have set. The legacy we have built together will continue to thrive and serve our community for years to come.”
