Tony Bleasdale
Ship name / Flight number: Fairsky
Arrival date: 29/10/1963
We want to acknowledge the loss of Tony Bleasdale, who passed away on his flight home from China. Tony was born in Liverpool, England, born to a dockworker. In 1963 at the age of 16, he embarked on a journey on the Fairsky to Australia as a Little Brother under the Big Brother Movement, seeking a fresh start.
In Australia, he carved out a rich and diverse career path, working as a bricklayer, serving as a union official, and eventually becoming a prosperous business owner. Tony dedicated himself to public service, serving as a councillor since 1996 and assuming the role of Mayor of Blacktown in 2019.
Throughout his life, Tony remained deeply appreciative of the opportunities afforded to him in Australia and devoted much of his time to giving back to the community. He was awarded a medal of the Order of Australia in 2010 for his charity work and service to the municipality of Blacktown.
Renowned for his generosity and compassionate nature, Tony leaves behind a profound impact on Blacktown, the city he cherished and often referred to as the “jewel in the crown of Western Sydney.”
Tony always saw himself as a ” Little Brother ”
Our hearts and condolences go out to Tony’s family.
https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/104285549?searchTerm=Tony%20Bleasdale
Tony Bleasdale: Blacktown mayor dies on flight home from China (9news.com.au)
Outpouring of tributes for Blacktown Mayor Tony Bleasdale – Catholic Outlook
Tony Bleasdale, mayor of Blacktown, dies on flight home from China (smh.com.au)
