- Mr Biasin died Monday aged 71
- He co-founded Australia's largest home building company in 1976
- Peter Langfelder has been appointed as acting CEO
The Australian home building industry is mourning the sudden death of Metricon Homes founder and chief executive officer Mario Biasin, aged 71.
No cause of death has been announced by Metricon.
Mr Biasin jointly founded the business in 1976 with George Kline, growing it to become the largest home builder in the nation, with 6,052 housing starts last year.
Major shareholder and long-standing director Ross Palazeesi will continue with the company as Acting Executive Chair. Current director and general manager of the Victorian division Peter Langfelder has been appointed as the acting CEO.
Mr Palazeesi in a statement expressed his grief of the loss of his colleague.
“As friends and colleagues of Mario, we are shocked and so saddened by the news. Our hearts and thoughts are with the Biasin family,” said Mr Palazzesi.
“We will ensure Metricon Homes continues all operations and on-site construction as usual during a very emotional time.”
Ross Palazessi, Metricon director
Currently, Metricon Homes employs around 2,500 staff across the eastern seaboard, with 4,000 houses under construction.
Mr Biasin interests outside of home building included football, where he was a shareholder and director of Melbourne Victory in the A-League.
“Melbourne Victory Football Club is today shocked, devastated and heartbroken upon hearing the news of the passing of Mario Biasin,” said Melbourne Victory Chairman Anthony Di Pietro.
“Mario has been a shareholder and Director of the Club for over 16 years, and has been an inspiration for many of us in so many ways, but especially as a great personal friend.
“He has always provided sage counsel to our staff, management and the Board and his football passion will live on forever.
“Mario will be sorely missed and our thoughts are with his wife Glenda and the entire Biasin family at this difficult time.”
Mr Biasin is survived by his wife, four children and grand children.
