‘Big Nick’ remembered for his service, humour, loyalty, and deep love for people and place

Nicholas Raymond Fardell — affectionately known as Big Nick — was a man whose life was defined by service, humour, fierce loyalty, and a deep love for people and place. Towering in stature and character, Nick was a natural connector, an advocate, a leader, and a mate to many. Born in Broken Hill, New South Wales, in 1969, Nick was raised in a household where integrity, community, and advocacy were not just values but lived examples. His father, Ray Fardell, was an electrical contractor and a proud community campaigner who once mobilised thousands in a protest for education resources — a spirit of conviction that clearly rubbed off on young Nick. As a teenager, Nick dabbled in football ambitions, trying his luck in Adelaide before life led him west to Kalgoorlie-Boulder in the early 1990s. There, among the red dirt and ironstone, he found not only opportunity but also a place he would forever call home. Nick embraced the Goldfields with the enthusiasm and drive that would become his signature. He rolled up his sleeves and got to work in the mining industry — from driving trucks and operating jumbos underground to completing a mature-aged electrical apprenticeship. Nick even did a brief stint with Freeport McMoran-operated mine Grasberg in Indonesia. Before long, he had built a successful electrical contracting business from the ground up, earning the respect of colleagues and competitors alike. Nick wasn’t afraid of hard work, and his commitment to the mining industry wasn’t just professional — it was cultural and personal. He believed in honouring the region’s mining heritage and improving the lives of those who continued to shape it. Nick was a proud and passionate leader within the WA Rock Drill Club, where he was not only a competitor but also a regular compere and adjudicator. His presence on the platform was legendary, combining deep respect for the sport with unmatched humour and warmth. He was instrumental in preserving the spirit of rock drilling, ensuring that tradition, competition, and camaraderie were passed down through generations. He also played a key role in commemorating the region’s mining legacy through his work with the Goldfields Miners’ Memorial board. This important initiative honours the lives lost in mining accidents across the Goldfields, providing a space for remembrance, respect, and reflection. Nick’s involvement reflected his empathy and unwavering belief in recognising the human cost of the industry he loved. In recent years, Nick took on the role of MC for the St Barbara’s Festival Parade — a standout event that celebrates the deep connection between the mining industry and the Goldfields community. With his booming voice and infectious energy, he brought the parade to life — guiding floats down Hannan Street and bringing spectators together with a strong sense of shared identity. Beyond industry, he was a community man, in every sense of the word. You could find him lacing up his boots to play for the Railways Football Club — proudly donning the No.47 guernsey in 49 league games. He was honoured as Club Person of the Year in 1997 and is remembered for his larger-than-life humour and commitment, even dressing in a bikini for a players’ revue night that’s gone down in club folklore. He served as president and secretary of the Great Boulder Cricket Club and was a beloved fixture on the social and sporting scene. His was the kind of involvement that didn’t stop at committee meetings; Nick gave his all — on the field, behind the scenes, and in the stands. Nick’s passion for community extended to the causes closest to home — none more heartfelt than his support for Give Me 5 for Kids, a charity introduced to the Goldfields through the local radio station, 6KG. Nick was a consistent and enthusiastic supporter of the annual fundraising efforts, lending not only his voice, but also his time, humour, and leadership as a GM5 Ambassador, to events that raised vital funds for sick children and their families across the region. A strong supporter of Full Circle Therapies, his impact there was lasting. From the moment he learned about the work they did with families in the Goldfields, he got involved — without hesitation. He helped promote events, raise funds, and rally community support, always bringing his trademark energy and commitment. Nick played a key role in starting the Epiroc v Westrac T20 Charity Cricket Match, which helped start the Mason’s House facility. He was also the familiar voice behind the mic as MC, yet again, and auctioneer at many charity golf days, helping raise thousands with humour and heart. His efforts included the #thumbsupforfullcircle campaign and the now-famous Wiggles shirt raffle — a 50-cent win that turned into more than $20,000 raised. Whether on the mic or manning the grill, Nick brought energy and authenticity that inspired generosity from all who took part. He also played a leading role in the camp oven competition at the Coolgardie Outback Rodeo, an event that drew bush cooks and competitors from across the region. Nick helped turn the competition into a celebration of good food, great stories, and grassroots connection. A true bush cook, Nick turned his passion and the humble camp oven into a tool for storytelling, community spirit, and more than a few laughs. Events like these weren’t just dates on a calendar to Nick — they were chances to give back, build community, and celebrate the heart of the Goldfields. Nick’s passion for connection and advocacy saw him step onto a bigger stage — politics. As a proud candidate for The Nationals WA in the 2019 Federal election, and again in the 2021 State election, Nick stood up for what he believed regional WA deserved: better infrastructure, healthcare, safety, and representation. He didn’t run for personal gain — he ran because he believed his community deserved more. His campaign motto “Big Nick Can” wasn’t just a slogan; it was how he lived his life. Even in the face of tremendous personal challenge, Nick never stopped giving. Diagnosed with myelodysplastic syndrome, a rare blood cancer that later progressed to leukaemia, Nick’s body grew weary, but his spirit never wavered. He continued to campaign — not for office, but for causes close to his heart. Nick pushed for the return of a blood donor centre to Kalgoorlie-Boulder and raised awareness of healthcare gaps in remote communities. As sick as he was, he continued to advocate for rail safety, regional services, and community wellbeing. More recently, Nick pursued the creation of events such as Shine on Goldfields, which highlighted the power of hope and community solidarity, and leading with courage and compassion. Among all the adventures and achievements in Nick’s life, none meant more to him than meeting his soulmate, Lisa. Both proud kids of the 1970s, they found in each other not just love, but deep friendship, laughter, and unwavering support. Their bond was built on shared values, quick wit, and a genuine joy in each other’s company. When they married, it wasn’t just the start of a new chapter — it was the moment two kindred spirits, shaped by the same era and grounded in the same sense of loyalty, found their person. Together they built a life full of warmth, purpose, and fun, and their greatest joy came with the arrival of their beloved son, Darcy. Through every challenge and celebration, Lisa remained Nick’s anchor and his light — and to those who knew them, their love was something truly special. On June 6, 2025, at Fiona Stanley Hospital in Perth, Nick died peacefully, aged in his mid-50s, after a courageous and unwavering battle. He leaves behind his beloved wife, Lisa, and son, Darcy — his greatest pride, and his enduring legacy. Nick Fardell was many things: a fighter, a father, a friend. A business owner, community builder, sportsman, and statesman. A mentor. A mischief-maker. A man who showed up — to everything, for everyone. To say the Goldfields — and indeed, regional WA — is poorer for his death is true. But it is richer for having had him. Because if anyone could — Big Nick did. In Loving Memory of Nicholas “Nick” Raymond Fardell. June, 2 1969 – June 6, 2025.