A statement from Minister for Arts

Vale a visionary leader of the Arts in Queensland

The entire arts community in Queensland has lost a visionary and inspirational leader with the passing of Tony Gould AM, late yesterday.

Tony redefined performing arts in our state and his loss will be felt by all those who knew him.

Tony Gould’s contribution to the arts was far reaching, most notably as founding and long-term Director of QPAC and founding Artistic Director of the Brisbane Festival.

Over so many decades, Tony demonstrated a great passion for QPAC and everyone who shared his presence would appreciate and remember his warmth and generosity.

Tony’s leadership was a corner stone in building QPAC as a place that Queenslanders love. His lifelong contribution put Queensland performing arts firmly on the world stage.

His legacy not only includes the entertainment of thousands of Queenslanders and visitors, he also expanded the expectations and experiences of performing arts audiences.

He was a true gentleman whose dedication to audiences and artists alike cannot be understated.

Tony’s commitment to artists continued well after his retirement from QPAC, including through his contribution to the Actors and Entertainers Benevolent Fund.

To the end, he was a regular and much-loved attendee at QPAC – always with his beloved wife Jenny by his side.

My thoughts are with Jenny and all of Tony’s friends and family at this sad time.

We have lost a great Queenslander with the passing of Tony Gould AM.

/Public Release. View in full here.