Tributes flow for former Meekatharra chief executive Dr Kelvin Matthews who died after cancer battle

Former chief executive of the Shire of Meekatharra Dr Kelvin Matthews has died following complications from a cancer diagnosis.

The 68-year-old had recently resigned from his role at the shire, following his diagnosis of mesothelioma.

The condition is a cancer affecting cells which cover most internal organs, according to the Cancer Council.

The Shire of Meekatharra released a statement on Friday, confirming Dr Matthews had died.

“Despite undergoing treatment, Kelvin passed at home with wife Neung by his side, during the early hours of January 17, 2025,” the statement read.

“Rest in peace Kelvin.”

Dr Matthews held several local government roles in New South Wales, Victoria and Queensland in the 1990s.

He later moved to WA to be the chief executive of the Shire of Tammin in the Wheatbelt.

While he held a number of roles across the country in local government, he returned to WA to be a policy and electorate officer for former premier Mark McGowan for 13 years.

Dr Matthews held roles in the Mid West and Gascoyne regions including chief executive at the shires of Shark Bay, Mt Magnet, before joining Meekatharra in 2021.

Shire president Harvey Nichol recently told the Midwest Times Dr Matthews had a significant impact in his role.

“Kelvin’s advice and guidance to me, as shire president, has been invaluable,” he said.

“He has been a mentor to many, always willing to share his knowledge and expertise, and has played a crucial role in council and staff development.

“He was a good, solid CEO, we worked well together. He didn’t shy away, he was retired but came back to work because he was bored.”

Dr Matthews had been a strong advocate for local issues, including upgrades to Wiluna Road and the Meekatharra Hospital.

Durack MHR Melissa Price took to Facebook to pay tribute.

“Vale Kelvin. So sorry to hear this news. Always enjoyed our chats. A real regional WA champion. Will be missed,” she said.

Mid West candidate and North West Central MLA Merome Beard also paid her respects online.

“Such very sad news. Kelvin always made time and was willing to share his views, experiences and understanding of our regions, communities and local government — a fierce advocate for our regions,” she said.

“My thoughts are with Kelvin’s family, friends, colleagues and the Meeka community at this very sad time. RIP Kelvin and thank you for all the great chats.”