Former Sydney Swans player Paul Atkins is being remembered as one of Tasmania’s most respected football figures after he was killed in a tragic road accident at the age of 57.
The former AFL footballer died after being struck by a vehicle in his home town of Wynyard in the state’s north on Saturday night, prompting an outpouring of tributes from clubs, teammates, community leaders and supporters across the country.
Tasmania Police confirmed officers and emergency services were called to Moore Road at about 10pm on Saturday following the fatal collision.
‘Sadly, a 57-year-old male pedestrian has died following a crash involving a vehicle at Wynyard,’ police said.
‘Police and emergency services were called to the scene on Moore Road around 10pm on Saturday 11 July.
‘Investigations into the circumstances surrounding the crash are continuing. No other vehicles were involved.
Former Sydney Swans player Paul Atkins is being remembered as one of Tasmania’s most respected football figures after his death
Moore Road in Wynyard remained closed as police conducted detailed examinations following the fatal collision
The Burnie Dockers honoured Paul Atkins’ remarkable football legacy spanning 127 senior games
‘Our thoughts are with the man’s family and loved ones. A report will be prepared for the Coroner.’
Atkins played two AFL games for the Sydney Swans during the 1992 season after earning his opportunity by starring for the Burnie Hawks.
Wearing the No.32 guernsey, he made his debut against the Brisbane Bears before playing his second and final senior match the following week against Richmond.
He later coached North Launceston in the Tasmanian State League and remained a well-known and much-loved figure in Tasmanian football.
His hometown team, the Wynyard Football Club, paid an emotional tribute to the former player, remembering not only his football achievements but his character.
‘Paul will be remembered as an enigmatic person blessed with a great wit, he was an outstanding raconteur, well-read, intelligent man, who could carry a conversation at any level, it would be remiss of the author not to mention at times the cheeky loveable rascal in Paul would surface,’ the club said.
The tribute also recalled his journey from Wynyard to statewide football with the Burnie Hawks and Dockers before reaching the AFL level.
Former Wynyard great Graeme ‘Gypsy’ Lee was remembered as saying on more than one occasion that Atkins was ‘the best centreman in Tasmania at that time’.
Paul Atkins’ identical twin Simon (pictured together) enjoyed a distinguished AFL career across 168 games with Footscray and Fitzroy from 1987 to 1996
Tributes (pictured) poured in from clubs, teammates and supporters following the tragic death
The Relive the Rivalry legends charity game will permanently retire Paul Atkins’ famous No. 32 guernsey during a special tribute this September (Atkins is pictured right with a friend)
The club added that Atkins ‘will be sadly missed by many people’ and extended its thoughts to his twin brother Simon and sister Kim.
Simon also enjoyed a distinguished AFL career, playing 168 games for Footscray and Fitzroy between 1987 and 1996.
Nicknamed ‘The Axe’, he was one of the competition’s most productive midfielders, led the AFL in handballs in 1990 and remains the last player to kick a goal for Fitzroy before the club’s merger with Brisbane.
The Relive the Rivalry organisation, where Atkins featured in all 12 matches since the concept began, described him as a driving force behind the event.
‘Paul’s contribution stems from more than chasing and getting the odd kick or two. His background support early ensured the game got off the ground and slowly we have developed to where it is today,’ the organisation said.
‘A loveable character that alongside brother Simon has always brought life to our parties and left an impression that will never be replaced.’
Relive the Rivalry announced it would honour Atkins at its late September match and permanently retire his No. 32 playing number.
Burnie Dockers Football Club also celebrated Atkins’ contribution to football on Tasmania’s north-west coast.
The club noted he played 127 senior games for Burnie, captained the Burnie Hawks in 1994 and won the club’s best and fairest award three times.
‘Paul will be remembered not only for his outstanding ability on the football field, but also for his leadership, commitment, and the respect he earned from teammates, opponents, and the wider football community,’ the club said.
‘His contribution to the Burnie Hawks, the Burnie Dockers and Tasmanian football leaves a legacy that will endure for generations.’
Burnie mayor Teeny Brumby also honoured Atkins, describing him as one of the city’s football greats.
‘He was an important part of a defining era in Burnie football, helping shape the proud history of both the Burnie Hawks and the Burnie Dockers,’ Brumby said.
‘His influence extended well beyond his playing days, through coaching, mentoring and the example he set for those who followed.
‘For so many across our football community, Paul was not only an exceptional player, but a respected teammate, opponent, coach and friend.’
Atkins is survived by his identical twin brother, former Footscray and Fitzroy midfielder Simon Atkins, and sister Kim.
Anyone with information or relevant dash cam footage who hasn’t already spoken to police is asked to call 131 444 and quote ESCAD 000402-11072026.
