13/08/2026
It is with great sadness that I learned of the passing of Dr Erik Finger AO, one of my predecessors as Honorary Consul of the Federal Republic of Germany.
Throughout his time in office, November 1996-2002, Erik Finger served Germany and the German community in Queensland with great dedication and commitment. His mother was Swiss and he studied German for five years at St Peters Lutheran College
A personal highlight in his role as Honorary Consul was the visit by German Chancellor Helmut Kohl to Cairns in early May 1997.
Erik Finger started as an engineer for Main Roads and over his career as a public servant progressed to the role of Director-General, Department of the Premier, Economic and Trade Development (1988-94). He also served as a Chair for organisations such as Queensland Motorways and Thiess.
For his services, he was awarded an Oder of Australia in 1995.
My university, QUT (Queensland University of Technology) awarded Erik Finger an Honorary Doctorate in 1994.
As part of my research on the history of the German Honorary Consul, I had the pleasure to meet Erik in his home in 2018, and I remember being deeply impressed by his wisdom, range of experiences and, maybe most of all, modesty.
I extend my sincere condolences to his family, friends, and all those who had the privilege of knowing and working with him.
His contribution will be remembered with gratitude and respect.
Ruhe in Frieden Erik.
