RESPECTED North Queensland grazier Robert Lord, Kilterry, Julia Creek, passed away yesterday (Tuesday).
It is understood by Queensland Country Life that Mr Lord, 55, died of a possible heart attack while working cattle in his cattle yards at about 3pm.
Mr Lord is survived by his wife Jeanette and their four children.
AgForce chief executive officer Charles Burke extended his sympathies to the Lord family on behalf of rural industry.
"It is a tragedy to lose another industry leader," Mr Burke said
"Robert was big contributor to the industry and will be well remembered for his significant involvement in the United Graziers Association and and in the setting up of AgForce.
"He contributed not only through his outstanding representation of the industry but through his own livestock business."
Mr Lord was the president of the UGA's Central and Northern Graziers Association when AgForce was created in 1998 through the amalgamation of the UGA, Queensland Grain Growers Association, and the Cattlemens Union.
Close friend and former MLA chairman Don Heatley said Robert was noted his exceptional personal integrity.
"His loyalty to his family and industry was quite unique and something I will always remember," Mr Heatley said.
"He was always trying to plot a path for his family and a deep thinker who considered everything very carefully in a calm and considered way.
"He thought not only about how issues would affect him and his business but also those around him including the members he represented."
Details of arrangements are still to be advised.