Former Australian Football League (AFL) player Paul Atkins, affectionately known as “Axe” to friends and family, has been mourned following his sudden death on Saturday night. The 57-year-old passed away after being struck by a car on Moore Street in Wynyard, Tasmania. His passing has prompted widespread tributes, remembering him as an inspiration, a football legend, and a charismatic individual who deeply impacted those around him.

A Life of Charisma and Tenacity

Paul Atkins, alongside his twin brother Simon, emerged from the Wynyard Football Club to reach the pinnacle of Australian rules football. His larger-than-life personality and unwavering spirit were central to his identity, traits that friends say defined his approach to all aspects of life. Gregg Sharman, a long-time friend, described Paul’s charisma as something that could be bottled and sold, highlighting his exceptional ability to captivate an audience. “If you could bottle the man’s charisma, it’d be a valuable thing,” Sharman remarked.

The profound impact of Paul’s personality extended beyond the football field. His twin brother, Simon, credited Paul with being instrumental in launching their professional careers. “I’ve got to thank him for my career. People don’t know that,” Simon shared. He recounted how Paul took the initiative to explore AFL opportunities in Melbourne, ultimately persuading Simon to join him. “He actually came to Melbourne by himself for a week and trained, came back and said, ‘I think we’ve got to go.’ He went by himself and twisted my arm and in the end I begrudgingly said, ‘All right, I’ll just go and have a look at it,’ and that’s how my career started.”

Football Journey and Lasting Friendships

The Atkins brothers’ journey from their hometown of Wynyard to the AFL is a source of pride for the Tasmanian football community. Paul’s debut with the Sydney Swans in 1992 was a memorable event for many, including Sharman, who watched from his grandparents’ home. “As a kid growing up, we tracked what the Atkins boys were doing,” Sharman recalled. “Paul was a childhood idol, really.” Their friendship deepened in the late 1990s, and Paul remained a constant presence in Sharman’s life and the lives of many others in Wynyard for decades.

Sharman also emphasized Paul’s remarkable storytelling abilities, recalling an instance where Paul had an entire busload of players in stitches during a football trip. “He was a great orator,” Sharman said, adding wistfully, “Unfortunately, he’s going to have his eulogy read, but there would be no one better at undertaking that task than him.” This sentiment underscores the void left by his absence, particularly his talent for bringing people together through humour and engaging narratives.

A Cherished Community Figure

Beyond his sporting achievements, Paul Atkins was deeply embedded in the fabric of his community. Braddon independent MP Craig Garland, who knew the Atkins twins since their childhood at the Wynyard Football Club, remembered Paul as the more outgoing of the two. Garland fondly recalled their interactions, often involving in-depth conversations over a beer. Their last meeting occurred recently at the Rockin’ for Robbins event at Wynyard’s Wharf Hotel, an encounter Garland now cherishes.

“He’s one of those fellas, you know, they’re gone and you just wish you’d spent more time with them,” Garland reflected. “But no-one expects this sort of thing to happen. He was a great human being. This is just such a tragedy.” The sentiment that “Wynyard will never be the same” was echoed by close friend Shannon Bakes on social media, who also referred to Paul as an idol. The outpouring of grief on social media platforms, with tributes from football clubs and individuals garnering hundreds of reactions, testifies to the wide-reaching influence Paul had.

Ongoing Investigation

Tasmania Police are currently investigating the circumstances surrounding the fatal collision on Moore Street. Authorities are appealing to the public for any information that may assist with their inquiries. The investigation is ongoing, and police urge anyone who witnessed the incident or has relevant details to come forward.

Paul Atkins’ legacy is one of a man who lived life to the fullest, leaving an indelible mark on the AFL, his community, and the countless individuals he inspired with his zest for life, his sporting prowess, and his exceptional character. His ability to connect with people, whether through a compelling story or a shared passion for football, ensured he would be remembered not just as a player, but as a truly great human being.