It is with broken hearts and deep sadness that we share the news of the passing of our friend and cherished member of the Otium family, Tony Butler. Tony passed away peacefully in the early hours of this morning, surrounded by loved ones, after a short illness.
Tony was an exceptional individual – a true gentleman, caring, highly efficient and always good fun. He was a well-known, valued, and respected member of the sport and recreation industry, having devoted most of his professional life to our sector. Tony worked with multiple local governments across Australia and was the current Queensland President of Parks and Leisure Australia. Tony made an extraordinary contribution to the sport and recreation industry, shaping policy, practice, and people through his expertise, leadership, and unwavering commitment to communities.
To Otium, Tony was a much-loved team member—always generous with his time, supportive of his colleagues, and ready to help with warmth and wisdom.
We are all undoubtedly poorer today for his loss.
Life can be so unfair sometimes, and we are all devastated and missing him immensely already. We continue to send our love and ongoing support to his family and friends.
We will share funeral arrangements in the coming days. In the meantime, please hold your family close and cherish every moment and honour Tony’s memory in your own way.