Lions' baggage handler tragedy
June 25, 2001

All involved with the Lions touring party have been shocked and saddened by the death of Anton Toia in Coffs Harbour.

He died after suffering a heart attack while a swimming in the ocean near the team hotel on Monday evening. Lions team doctor James Robson tried unsuccessfully to revive him.

A long time player and coach for the Easts club in Brisbane, Anton was working as the Baggage Master for the touring Lions team.

He has served as a Baggage Master and strapper with the Australian Rugby Union for more than a decade, volunteering his services to touring teams.

ARU Managing Director John O'Neill says today's news is devastating for everyone in the Australian rugby community.

"Anton was a great bloke in every sense of the word. Just one of those people that everyone loved working with and was the kind of person it was great to be around."

"There are many, many people here at the ARU and from touring teams who have come here over the years who will be deeply saddened by his passing."

"Our sympathy goes out to Anton's family and our thoughts are with them."

This afternoon, Lions Manager Donal Leniham added his team's sympathies.

"Since Anton joined up with us three weeks ago, he has made a valuable contribution to the Lions and had become a popular member of our touring party."

"Our deep condolences go out to his family and friends at this very sad time."

Anton leaves behind a wife, two sons and a daughter.

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