A fond farewell to Michael Kelly: Celebrating a Legacy of Dedication and Service

As we bid farewell to a remarkable career, we celebrate Michael Kelly, who wrapped up his professional journey on February 5, 2025. After years of dedicated service at CPA and a lifetime of impactful roles, Michael’s career is a remarkable journey, marked by constant dedication, resilience, and a profound influence that stretches far beyond the usual scope of job titles.

A Legacy of Service

Michael’s career began under the most earnest circumstances, joining the Queensland Police Service (QPOL) as a cadet in 1959 at just 17 years old, at Mount Larcom. His dedication saw him quickly progress to a probationary constable at Mount Isa by December 1961. Michael spent four years in uniform before transitioning to plain clothes, where his adventures included a memorable raid on a local gambling joint — a story he often reminisces on despite the dressing down he received the following day from his inspector.

From the Depths to the Fields

After his time with the police force, Michael ventured into the mining industry, working 160 feet below the surface as a CMW for five years, during which he achieved a commendable 47,000 working hours without incident. His journey didn’t stop there; Michael then took to the fields, working as a farmhand on his family’s farm, embodying the hard work and dedication instilled in him from a young age.

A Dairy Farmer’s Life

Eventually, Michael found his passion in dairy farming, an endeavour that had him milking cows twice daily and truly connecting with the land and his livestock. His stories from these days, filled with challenges and accomplishments, have been a source of inspiration and entertainment for all who had the pleasure of listening.

A Longtime Employee at CPA and NRG

In his final professional chapter, Michael dedicated eight years to CPA at NRG, where he worked until his retirement. His influence was profound, leaving a lasting impact on his team and even those outside it. Michael is known for his integrity, his respect for others, and his unwavering professionalism.

The Next Chapter

Now, Michael manages a 240-acre farm with 100 head of Brangus cattle, focusing on tasks like spraying against buffalo flies and overseeing his land. His retirement was celebrated by his colleagues at CPA, including heartfelt best wishes from Harley, Sam, Chris, and the entire CP management team.

Michael Kelly’s career is a testament to a life well-lived, marked by dedication to every role he undertook. As he steps into this well-deserved retirement, he leaves behind not just a legacy of hard work but also a reservoir of incredible stories that will continue to inspire and entertain. Michael may have hung up his professional hats, but he remains, as ever, “good for a yarn.”

We wish Michael all the best in his retirement, knowing well that his story is far from over—it’s just entering a new chapter.