Blacktown Mayor Tony Bleasdale OAM, 77, dies on flight home from China

The Mayor of Blacktown City, Councillor Tony Bleasdale OAM, died at 77, Deputy Mayor and Councillor Chris Quilkey mentioned in a statement on Friday, 3 May 2024.

Mr Tony passed away suddenly on Thursday evening on a flight home from a study visit to China. 

Councillor Chris and the Blacktown Council extend their thoughts to Tony’s wife, Nina, his children and their extended family.

The Deputy Mayor mentioned Mayor Tony’s warm and engaging personality led him to forge many friendships across Sydney after arriving from the United Kingdom in 1963.

“Starting as a bricklayer, he worked for 40 years in the building industry, and with tremendous drive and energy, established his own successful labour hire business,” Councillor Chris mentioned.

“Tony served the community he loved with the same energy and commitment.”

“First elected as a Blacktown City councillor in 1996, Tony was a strong advocate for the area and a champion of Western Sydney.”

“He was proud of the incredible diversity of Blacktown City and passionate about delivering services and opportunities for its residents and businesses.”

“Tony was also a passionate advocate for First Nations people.”

“When elected Mayor in 2019, Tony proved a visionary leader in transforming the city to better serve a growing population.”

“He was central in negotiating the $2 billion Walker Corporation Blacktown Quarter project, which will provide investment, jobs and growth.”

“Tony was loved by his community and he loved it back, with a generous heart and a genuine commitment to a bright future.”