Peter "Peewee" Cotton

Have only just learnt of your sad passing Peter.

We met decades ago when the first few toes where being dabbed into workplace mental /psychological health. We become part of the travelling team of the Inaugural early occupational health and safety conferences when they started taking off, following each other on the podium, doing panels from our different but complimentary perspectives. You were a great teacher.

Your encouragement and research helped give me confidence & the voice to share my lived experience (people touched directly and Indirectly by mental Illness) to start being heard in workplaces, that all perspectives could work together & make a difference to peoples mental health, life and work.

It doesnt seem that long ago we had coffee and cake at brunettis. A great loss to your family and the community. You were one of the pioneers all those years ago in a space were few were willing to go. You will be greatly missed.

I recall many fun moments with Peter at Scotch College...sorry tto hear of his passing.
Good souls are hard to find...

As sectretary for the Victorian - ARPA (Australian Rehabilitation Providers Association), on behalf of our members, I would like to convey their deepest condolences to Peters family. Peter was a valued leader within the workplace rehabilitation and compensation arenas and will be sadly missed by many. Members of this group also worked with Peter through his role on the WorkSafe and Comcare Clinical panels and appreciated his objective, clinical and wholistic approach to care of some of the most vulnerable people in our community. We have lost someone who has added much to our industry but he has left us with his legacy, knowledge and strategies. Thanks Peter for all you have done. RIP.

Today, when I was told about Dr Cotton's passing, I was shocked and deeply sad to accept the fact.

I only met Dr Cotton twice in year 2017 and 2018 through my assessment Dr Cotton. But I felt that Dr Cotton is just a perfect person in the world. You are a such gentle and respectful person. You held justices and fairness to others when it comes to work.

Dear Dr Cotton, you will be missed dearly by me and your families and friends. My thoughts are with your family. Please rest in peach......
-Jiao

Thoughts are with Peter's family today.

Vale Peter. Peter's passing appears not only unfair to have lost someone so young, but also an incredible loss to the world at large, apart from his loved ones. He was so talented and hard-working, and made very significant contribution to Australian society over the last 30 years through his work. As a colleague and knowing Peter for 20 or more years, I've always been in awe of his ability to have his fingers in multiple pies, led the way in research and public dissemination of Psychology, particularly work stress, and yet have a humanistic spirit and have the embodiment of the complete person, just as happy philosophising or talking music or his kids over European beer at the bluestone bar or the Qantas lounge as he was delivering some address and a big wig conference, or heading up some insurance panel. Peter was incredibly generous in his ability to promote other psychologists , he was never jealous, competitive or small-minded towards other professionals, and was in the field for all the right reasons, and did lots of work in areas noone wanted to touch. he was also prepared to be hard nosed and take on difficult issues and make tough calls. He also had a personality that was distinctive, funny and a wicked, absolutely irreverent at times, and self-deprecating. Our last contact was asked trying to catch up for drinks, Peter emailed, "always happy to catch up with esteemed colleagues". smart, cool and funny guy. I'm sorry we didn't make that last time, but hopefully next time around. My thoughts are with his family and friends. I am sure he will stay with you.

I only knew PETER in a professional capacity and colleague. Really shocked to learn of his passing. On the three or four occasions I spoke with him he always came across as an insightful, highly professional and reasoned man. My condolences to his family.

Peter was such an inspiration. I was always fascinated by the way he thought and saw the world. I feel so honored to have known him even for a short time. His positive impact on emergency services well-being is a lasting legacy. My thoughts are with his family and friends.

I always felt extremely lucky whenever I had a chance to chat/work with Peter. His intellect and level of knowledge paired with genuine humility/friendliness is rare to come by. We have lost a great but his positive impact will live on through his work and those he influenced greatly (including myself). You will never be forgotten. Rest in Peace Peter.xx

I always felt extremely lucky whenever I had a chance to chat/work with Peter. His intellect and level of knowledge paired with genuine humility/friendliness is rare to come by. We have lost a great but his positive impact will live on through his work and those he influenced greatly (including myself). You will never be forgotten. Rest in Peace Peter.xx

For me, like many, the more I was lucky enough to get to know Peter the more he became a go to person for me. That was one of his great strengths i think... at his heart Peter just wanted to help other people. He did this on so many levels - he was deeply intrigued and knowledgeable in the science of helping but also an artful practitioner at individual, workplace and community and policy levels.

When I saw Peter present I always came away with a sense of greater understanding and clarity - like a jigsaw had been put together in front of me or like something that was previously only one dimensional had been revealed in 3 dimensions.

Such a loss to us all - those that knew Peter, but also those that benefited from what he knew and did.

Peter Cotton such a genuine, thoughtful, intelligent and decent human being. Just being around him made me smile, he was quirky, incredibly generous with his time and was much quicker and more informative than any google search when you needed an answer about workplace mental health. Peter's knowledge base was immense, he didn't have to rely on charisma (not that he was short of any), flashy slides (not that he had any!), or an emotive story to get his message across. Every one of us who has made a career out of workplace mental health owe a debt to Peter his legacy is enormous, and his passing leaves a gaping hole in the lives of many people and in an industry struggling to keep up with demand. I miss him.

Vale Dear Pete.
I was only told of Pete's death yesterday (thanks for contacting me Maryanne); but I knew Pete across decades and the country as a friend. Our conversations included topics such as Jung vs Freud, Picasso's sexism, Baudelaire, Socialism and Capitalism, Theosophy and VJ; we practised writing poetry and he supported my art work through purchase and praise; back in the 1980's we went for hot chocolates down Acland Street and he would pile in at least 7 spoons of sugar every time. That's one of my favourite memories
Mental Health in the workplace was a shared passion and our last conversation was of a collaboration that will now not occur but I will continue to bring awareness to the trauma of first responders and hope to affect change through my ongoing work.

Onwards and upwards P, see you on the other side daemon. S

Dr Peter Cotton was an inspiring mentor to many people. He changed the way people thought. He was an advocate for all, and many people who have benefited from his work may not even know his name. He shaped Mental Health strategies for many organisations and was a true thought leader when sharing his knowledge. I had the pleasure of working with him on a number of projects and speaking with him at a number of conferences. I am grateful for the opportunity to have known you Dr Cotton and to have benefited from your knowledge and insights. RIP. Whilst our thoughts are with your family, the thoughts you gave us over the years will never be lost. Thank you Dr Cotton. - Dean

Peter made a tremendous contribution to improving mental health in Australia. He inspired others and drove positive change with his commitment, willingness to collaborate and share his expertise with others. His passion, sense of humour and innovative ideas were inspiring and motivating. He will be greatly missed by his colleagues and community. We offer our condolences and best wishes to his loved ones we hope you have the support you need at this difficult time.

Way too soon for Peter to go. Knew eachother only through our work, sadly. I was moved by his Memorial service last week--what an outpouring of love and fun and grief and life. So wish I also knew the Peter in all those cheeky photos--Tony LaMontagne

Peter Cotton was my mentor and my hero during my early years as a psychologist. An Obe Wan Kenobi influence of indescribable importance to me. A phenomenal work ethic that was unsurpassed matched by a razor sharp intellect and a deep sense of compassion for his clients, his colleagues and his profession. I shall be ever grateful for your influence in my life!
Vale Peter Cotton

Peter was a friendly man at work, always willing to answer a question and offer his expertise and advice, of which he had spades. He was always willing to share a little story about his family and things he had been doing. He was clearly very proud of his family. He was a lovely work colleague and will be missed.

I was incredibly saddened and shocked to hear of Peter's passing. I always found Peter to be incredibly generous with his time and his advice. He was an early supporter of R U OK? Day which we really appreciated. He worked so hard to make workplaces psychologically safe and his work will live on. My heartfelt condolences and sympathies go to his family. RIP Peter

Peter was one of the most memorable people I have come across in my working life. He was the intellectual presence floating above us mere mortals at Work Solutions/ HSA/Medibank. It was his ideas about safety at work that inspired us all.

But that's not all, he was fun, funny and quirky. I loved his hats, his dress sense and his musical taste. He stood out and I must admit to being slightly jealous of his style.

I haven't had much to do with him lately but in our last contact he helped me a lot.

All my best wishes to his family and as us Jews say "long life to you".

Good bye Peter.

The world of work is a psychologically healthier and safer one due to Peter's intellectually rigorous, evidence-based and incisive contribution to the science and practice in this area. There wasn't a week that went by when I didn't recommend his work and expertise to others and call upon it in my own work. In addition to being an avid follower of his work, I had the great fortune to co-facilitate a few workshops with Peter and reveled in the experience knowing I was in the presence of great wisdom and expertise. I did not know Peter at a personal level but if the caliber of his professional impact is any indicator of this, I am sure he will be sadly missed by his loved ones and my sincere condolences go out to you all. Rest in peace Peter. Sharon Bent

Peter was a great man who affected many lives and helped shape an industry, and he was a great mate whose warmth, quick wit, ready laugh and love of fine wine will stay with me forever.

My sincere love and condolences to his family, thinking of you at this very difficult time.

Rest in peace, Peewee.

We are deeply saddened by the news of Peter's passing. Peter worked with us for a number of years, he was well respected and liked by all.

Our thoughts go out to his family during this difficult time.

Rest in peace Peter.

Dear Peter
I've very fond memories of working closely together to create innovative ways to make the world a healthier place. Your passion, enthusiasm and intelligent mind never ceased to inspire me to persevere even in difficult circumstances.
You have made such an impact on so many people and communities with your work - it was a privilege to work with you at Medibank.

In the words of Maya Angelou, people may forget what you said or did but people will never forget how you made them feel - and with Peter that was always welcomed and included.

Staying over at Eugene's always meant a late night.
Maryanne would go off to bed and Peter was left in charge which was great for us because he'd let us play games on his work computer, and Peter, Eugene and me would watch action movies until way too late. Maryanne would reappear hours later and chase us all off to bed.
The next morning breakfast was usually bacon and eggs cooked by Peter. He cooked the best bacon and eggs.

I worked with Peter for over ten years across different roles. Peter brought a unique perspective to matters being an expert in both clinical and organisation psychology which enabled him to transverse the spectrum of prevention, treatment and return to work. He was a leader in the direction of occupational psychology in Australia and his legacy will be around in this field for many years to come.

Peter was often the person I contacted to deal with urgent or complex matters. He could always be relied upon to respond quickly with expert advice and support.

I will forever remember a talk of Peter's I went to years ago on civility in the workplace. I still regularly reflect on Peter's civility concept and try to put it into practice. This is an example of one of Peter's great strengths in being able to apply his knowledge and insight into a concept that was able to be broadly understood and practically used.

I enjoyed working with Peter, I will miss my talks with him and his counsel. My thoughts are with his family at this difficult time.

I'd like to add my condolences to the Cotton family at this time. Dr Cotton has left a lasting legacy on the current knowledge of occupational mental health and his ability to speak openly and in common language will be sorely missed.

As an Employer representative and a Health and Safety professional; I believe the world is smaller for his passing. However, I hold the hope that his work has inspired so many others to pick up a torch and move forwards to shine light in this space held dear to his heart.

Vale Peter Cotton.

My heart felt condolences go to Peter's family. It has been such a shock to hear the news that such a wonderful man has been taken from us and I can only image how hard it must be for his family.

I knew Peter from my time at Medibank Health Solutions and can only describe him as a very compassionate and caring person who was dedicated to his work, set very high standards and always seemed to be considered in what he said, lest he speak an untruth. I enjoyed very much my time working with him when I had the change and feel intense grief and sadness at the loss. My heart and thoughts go out to his family and to all the other people who had the pleasure of being part of his life.

John Littleton

Dear Peter,
Throughout our time at Work Solutions and Medibank Heath your expertise,work and support was unparalled. We were all fortunate to have the opportunity to work with you.
Your gentleness, friendship and wit will always remain a memory.
Condolences to the Cotton family

Sending love and strength to you dear Maryanne, Eugene and Tllda. Peter's warm embrace of our boys was his gift to our family. With much love from Karyn, Paul, Kaleab, Danny, Abel and Yeabsra xx

Many of us fellow Psychologist who worked with you, knew that we had the honour of riding on the shoulder of a giant. With your stellar intellect, tireless work-ethic, quick wit and hard-earned gravitas, you brought credibility to a profession and opened minds and doors to the field of psychology that would have otherwise been closed. I will be forever grateful to you Peter.

Deeply saddened by your loss, good man. Sending heartfelt condolences to your family and loved ones.

Peter - I still remember meeting you for the first time as a young, not yet qualified psychologist at worksafe in 2010. I was full of awe in meeting you - the famous Dr Cotton. You were so humble and other-focused and always made me feel like a peer even though you were light years ahead of me. Thank you for mentoring me, for providing advice and wisdom and paving the way for others to walk in your footsteps. Your work has immortalised you and I'll always look up to you.

Dearest Peter

Whilst you have left us too soon, I am eternally grateful to have had the opportunity to work with you and bring a little piece of sunshine and happiness to the lives of others. May the clouds that now embrace you allow you to watch over your family. Rest in peace gentle and generous man.

Peter was a generous man, a gentle man and a gentleman. I was privileged to have met Peter through my work at SuperFriend and to have worked with him as a member of our Program Committee. Peter was generous with his knowledge and incredibly passionate about SuperFriend. I am grateful for the opportunity to have known Peter and to have benefited from his knowledge and insights. His contribution will be missed, and I know that our work is all the better for his ideas and advice. Peter and I had some pretty good conversations about trips to Italy too!

Peter was such a gentle colleague, generous in his embrace of knowledge, and in his willingness to share with others, and to comfortably straddle the world of both organisational and clinical psychology, and to bring a client-centred understanding to policy discussions, tempered with wit and wisdom. His insights were given with grace and dignity, and made a difference at many levels to many people. He will be missed - vale Peter.

Dear Peewee, Thank you for always being there for your family. Even if you were at the end of the dining room table near the frogs surrounded by paperwork. Or on the far red couch in the living room with your computer resting on your belly and your glasses balancing on your nose. Thank you for making rice and chicken for us every night. So that when I came over I never had to ask what are we having for dinner? Thank you for letting Tilda and I listen to Nova FM in the car even though you hated the music and the people introducing it. Thank you for not getting cross at me when I knocked over the dangly lamp in the living room. Thank you for being my second dad. Thank you for being a great dad. And thank you for making your home feel like my home. I know these memories aren't significant but I know they'd make Peewee smile.''
Written by Milla Muntz with love from Rich, Susie, Ark, Rem and Pip.

I was lucky enough to work with Peter during my time with Work Solutions. He always gave me his time, was generous with his support and possessed an amazing amount of knowledge and wisdom. I have very fond memories of Peter and was truly shocked and saddened to hear of his passing.

I wish his family lots of love and support through this extremely difficult time. He was a great man, who was loved and touched many. My deepest sympathies to all those close to him.

I worked with Peter and he was so amazing and respected. I learnt so much from him, he really was a leader in his field. He made such an impact on my life, throuhg his guidance and wisdom. My thoughts are with his family on such a sad loss
My condolences.
Pierrette

To Peter's dear family,

My most sincere condolences.

Peter and I were colleagues at Medibank. His generosity for those around him will always be remembered and his work has changed the world that surrounds us.

May you rest in peace Peter.

We met Peter in Brisbane in the late twentieth century. He and Maryanne lived in a house on a hill, with verandahs all the way around (from memory) and internal environment that was filled with quirky art objects and knick-knacks that our two children under two would love to pick up, rearrange and break. Maryanne was an emerging writer at the time and we bonded in the subtropical heat as Melburnian escapees. Peter had taste, he had nice things, including a huge collection of CDs (those were the days!) of obscure but very classy music.

We connected with Peter and Maryanne across Australia and over twenty years, in Brisbane, in Perth, Melbourne, the Howqua Valley, in Venus Bay, and in Ballarat. Their house in St Kilda is a significant gathering place for us - and an art-work in itself.

The last time we saw Peter was at Maryanne's production of City of Lost Souls. He was as excited as she was, monitoring the kids and sharing Maryanne's achievement. He was beaming.

Here is our sense of Peter that will live on. He is a man who was always

•Besotted, fascinated with Maryanne

•Delighted in Tilda and Eugene from the day they were born and a caring, loving and thoughtful father

•He was argumentative (in a good way).

•Interesting (and there aren't so many interesting people in the world) actively engaged especially in politics and 70s rock music

•Intelligent, knowledgeable, an expert in his field

•A good listener

•Had a secret yoga practice

•Could be extravagant, particularly with cars

• Would always be extremely generous and hospitable. We had some glorious meals and picnics. Peter would reliably bring wonderful wine

•Discerning, sometimes in a scary way. Passionate and critical viewer of art and music; a genuine patron and supporter

•Wearer of cool hats

•Adventurous and fun loving. Especially on holidays

Dear Val, Fiona,Richard and their families, they have lost a cherished Son and Brother. To Maryanne, Eugene and Tilda, you have lost the love of your life, may the love and support of friends and family carrry you through your unbelievable grief.

I met Peter as a graduate, since then I have been so fortunate to have worked and crossed paths with Peter on and off over the past 18 years. Peter would always take the time to chat took an interest in my work and career. He was generous with his time when discussing complex cases or a referral. He valued sharing his knowledge, guidance and experience in research and clinical practice, to make workplaces safer and positively impact the health and wellbeing of those he treated. I will miss his candid and quirky manner, his friendliness and his intellect. You will be missed Dr Peter Cotton, gone too soon.

Pee wee

To all the Cotton clan - I want to pass on my sincere condolences.

Peter has had such a positive impact on so many people and his legacy is remarkable. I was a colleague during Peter's time at Medibank Health Solutions and I will always remember his super bright smile, his razor sharp wit and his willingness to help. Peter's care was genuine, calming and incredibly heart-warming. His knowledge, intellect and practitioner skills had no peer...

You will always be remembered fondly Peter.
Rest in peace.

RIP Peter. My condolences to Peter's family. I knew Peter a long time ago when I worked at the APS and I always loved to see him and respected the work he did the the sphere of psychology. He was well loved by all the staff at the APS. So sad to hear of his passing.
Cherry Horan

Rest in Peace, Peter. You will be greatly missed by everyone who was lucky enough to spend time with you. We know you are watching over Maryanne, Eugene and Tilda and we will too. Love Georgie, Robert, Harrisen, Rhiannon and Candace xx

Peter was an extraordinary character.
I knew Peter best as a young school compatriate reconnecting every 10 years and always as if we'd seen each other yesterday. Once met always remembered as a compassionate individual..... always interested, always interesting, fun and with a love of life and a great sense of humour.
Deepest condolences to his family and friends.
Fondest memories, "Timewind" - envoking a timeless state in the listener, vale Peter.

Condolences to Val and the Cotton Family
Roy & Fay Heeps Mt Waverley

Peter was a leader and mentor to many psychologists who worked with him in WA. He was generous with his time and genuine in his spirit to help us, and help others. Respected as a professional, knowledgeable, even formidable. But speak with him and he would speak with you. Ever ready to give you his time and consideration. Thankyou Peter. He spoke fondly of his family and are thoughts are with you.

From some of Peter's many friends and colleagues in the west.

I first met Peter some 15 years ago and instantly bonded with him over our shared love of horror movies. Particularly Italian horror movies of the 70s and 80s. Those were his favourites. One of my movies pays homage to the cinema of Dario Argento and Mario Bava filmmakers that Peter was passionate about.

We also had a shared love of David Cronenberg's movies for me always a sign of a discerning and intelligent film fanatic.

We could talk about this stuff for hours, and often did. I recall many times calling Peter at the last minute as I'd noticed something we'd like was playing at the Astor. We would meet each other in the foyer there on many occasions.

Peter's warmth, good humour and intelligence was always on display. He had a wonderfully playful personality and it always felt like the kid inside Peter was alive and at the controls for long stretches. He was a joy to be around and he enriched my life every time I was lucky enough to spend time with him. I am heartbroken that I won't get to do that again.

He was always interested in what I and others were up to and there was always that wonderful smile and warmth that he exuded. I always felt happy when I was with him.
Peter was a kind, caring man. He was also an outstanding father to Eugene and Tilda whom I know he loved very, very much. I can't imagine what those kids are going through at the moment but I want them to know that their father will never be forgotten by those who loved him and that he would want them to go on and live long and successful lives.

My deepest sympathies to Marianne who has had her whole world tipped upside down. We are here to support you in the months and years ahead, and we will. You have a lot of friends who are determined to look after you, a sign of what a great person you are.

I will deeply miss my dear friend Peter forever but I will always cherish the wonderful memories I have of our times together and the fun that we had. He was a beautiful person and I'm so glad that I was able to call him my friend.

Thank you Maryanne, Eugene and Tilda for your generosity in sharing Peter with all of us. Like so many others, We had the blessing of working with Peter on different occasions. Professionally he was able to draw on a command of relevant literature gained through his excellent scholarship. His advice was informed and always compasssionate. He was a wonderful mentor and friend. His influence will live on in the many people he has connected with. I don't believe any sane person could know him without loving him. Peter would offer to help anyone at any time. God bless you Peter.
Vale Peter Cotton - May his legacy and passion to improve mental health for Australians live on in all of us x

This is a love song because music is the strongest bond between Peter, Tim and I. From perhaps my earliest encounter before Peter's brag that "I met Doodle before Tim did"... we probably both stood in Daniel's Pipe Records in the Nicholas building arcade: Me in my school uniform and he, no doubt, swiftly and with his acute eye and ear, absorbing every vinyl in the small shop. From Can to Magma, Klaus Schulze and Tangerine Dream.
So, from these musical beginnings in the late 1970's Peter, Tim and I loved our way through the music. There were other things - Gnarwin Street for Val's amazing scones and crazy canoeing trips down the Mitchell River with Robyn. And then Peter went to Brisbane and we kept playing the music without him.
In the early 90's we reconnected when Tim noticed a small fellow, with bald head tripping down Little Collins Street under his office and yelled out the window. The friendship was off and running again....
Now with Maryanne at his side off we went to a couple of Womads - Aless and I helping with the babies, Eugene and Tilda. Countless touring artists in Melbourne - Goblin playing the organ in the Melbourne Town Hall was memorable...Brian Jonestown Massacre, Spiritualized several times, as well as Big Day Outs, Boogie Festivals, All Tomorrow's Parties at Mt Buller and, of course week-ends away at Yandoit where we all fought over the remote to play our favourite tunes.
And now a week after Peter slipped off this mortal coil as we were enraptured by David Byrne performing his American Utopia, we enjoy every sweet song and memory we shared these past 40 odd years.

While I will forever miss my dear friend and mentor, Peter, I know it will never compare to your loss as a family. Wishing you peace to bring comfort and the courage to face the days ahead and loving memories to forever hold in your hearts. My heart is filled with sorrow upon hearing the news about your husband and father's passing. My most sincere condolences.
Warmest regards,
Jenny Wong

Whilst I only knew Peter for eight years, the impact he had on me and my psychology career will be something that I cherish forever. I feel privileged to have called Peter my mentor, colleague and friend and am truly grateful for the wisdom and knowledge that he imparted on me. The psychology fraternity has lost an amazing man, but we will strive to live up to his reputation and continue to make him proud.

My sincere condolences to the Cotton family.

Peter, you were respected at hello. A wonderful combination of intelligence, curiosity, practicality, humbleness, sincerity, patience, and good humour. A true savant you paved the way forward in the occupational health space. Undoubtably you improved the quality of life for so many. Tragic that your life was taken so soon. Peter it was an absolute pleasure working with you. I will miss our double acts so much, but will continue to spread your word. My heartfelt deepest sympathy for your family.

I always have had the greatest respect for your tireless work supporting your loved ones. Whenever our paths crossed I always enjoyed our conversations that would leave me with something new to ponder. Your loss will be felt not only amongst your family and friends but right across your field where you devoted so much energy that improved lives across Australia.

My deepest sympathy and condolences to Val and entire Cotton family.

To the Cotton family,

We were very shocked to hear the news of Peter's passing. Our two families were linked for so many years, through vacations, christmas dinners, card nights, etc. So many memories.

Peter will be greatly missed by his family and friends. Our thoughts are with you all at this hard time.

Somehow with your giant intellect, cap on a tilt and the Australian under your arm you became our basketball coach. One minute you were an interested spectator on the sidelines, the next you'd moved across the divide to the coaches and players only side of the court. You were stepping into very large shoes, those left by Coach Hurley after a magnificent run of 8 years, but you made the job your own. I don't know that you directed any of the play, and I don't think you raised a sweat or your voice when shots or decisions went against us. In fact I'm not sure I ever saw you jump to your feet during play. But I did see you smile, looking proud, touching an arm here and there in encouragement; giving the team free rein to just play, unencumbered by the complexity of a desperate need to win. When asked for reflections about Coach Cotton my son said simply, he just let us play. We think you nailed the gig Coach Cotton.

A wonderful, empathetic guide. Taught so many so much. Thanks Peter you will missed by me and all @Superfriend. Deep condolences.

Peter: still, we cannot accept that we will not see you again, hear your voice, have a laugh, gain your astute insights into people and the world. It was only last summer that you were presiding over the barbecue at Jervis Bay, being the benevolent host and enjoying precious family time with your beloved twins and soul mate, Maryanne.

Your connection with your children was enviable. When we look at Tilda, we see in her, your gentleness and empathy for people. Her warmth, maturity and strength makes us think that as a teenager, you were also an old soul, who knew so much about the world, despite youth and inexperience. Now we know that your passion and spirit will live on in her and give her the wisdom and strength to emerge from this incredibly difficult time. In Eugene, we can see your spark and sharp intelligence; the depth and quiet determination that enabled you to become a leader in your field. Intuition is a very powerful gift and you have passed this on to your son. We know that Eugene will continue to enjoy your insights as he comes into full bloom and becomes the man that you knew that he would be and of whom you would be proud.

Our beloved friend Maryanne (whom we consider to be part of an extended family) now must go forward without you. Right now she finds this unfathomable and unfair; an inexplicable blow that has come out of nowhere and devastated all. It is hard to find words to comfort her and your two children, because there are none. All that we can hope, is that the love and creativity that she has within her in abundance, will provide her with the inner resources to be the rock for her family that she needs to be right now.

As these words are written, we can still hear your voice, see you cooking dinner in the kitchen, see you managing work, caring for your children and Maryanne and feeding the marvellous menagerie that makes the Cotton-Lynch household a place of fun and joy. We like to think, that even though you have left this world, that your unique and enduring qualities will be the constant companion of those you have left behind. We also hope that your relationship with Maryanne, Eugene and Tilda, means that all that is the best of you, is internalised within each of them in this life, so that they never feel the pain of being alone.

All our love,

Anna, Kim Xavier, Michael and Andreas.

Oh dear, Peter.... what shall I do without you? Elsewhere I have written something that speaks much more to your brilliance, your bravery in doing the tough work you have done, your collaborative spirit and your total dedication - but layers down from this is a loss that I cannot put words to yet - and I will miss our fabulous, fast paced, right to the point conversations and your perfect, wicked wit and humanitarian love for all of us crazy, messed up humans. Dear Maryanne, Eugene, Tilda and Peter's mother, I am thinking of you and your own loss - which will be always beyond my ownxx

Peter, you will be sadly missed. I have really your valued your wisdom and generous spirit ever since we first collaborated many decades ago at the APS and Telstra up to just a few weeks ago at WorkSafe.

My deepest condolences and thanks to Maryanne, Eugene and Tilda for this space to share in your grief.

Dear Maryanne, Eugene & Tilda,

We write to express our grief at the loss of your beloved Husband, Father and Friend.

Thank-you for opening this space to us all So, very considerate and humanitarian of You - just as he was.

Peter was a true luminary; he brought light to a field often without hope and became a way-bearer for our profession.

For all Peter's Family and Friends - we wish to assure you that Peter's legacy will be enduring, and we hope this may become a solace for you in time.

Our deepest condolences.
Lisa Romano on behalf of Members of the Victorian Rehabilitation Case Managers Network (Commonwealth Government of Australia - Agencies, and Licensees)

*Notable work that Peter gifted us was through the Australian Public Service Commission & Comcare Guidelines Working as One: Promoting Mental Health and Wellbeing at Work. The mental health of employees suffering psychological ill-health at work and through work, will continue to improve and thrive through Peter's ground-breaking work. And this was just one of manyThank-you Peter

Peewee, thanks for always being deeply kind and wickedly funny. The times I shared with you will forever rank among the most memorable. You'll always be in our hearts and thoughts.

Peter and I were colleagues at Work... then Medibank Health Solutions. He was always friendly and interested in discussing not only his work (which was brilliant) but sharing a laugh about some of the absurdities of life. You will be missed.

Shocked and heartbroken to lose such a treasured friend. A man of intellect, compassion and love. I hope you found your Eldorado.

Peter was an inspiring mentor to many people because of his fine mind and big heart.

Love and Condolances from Jill and Muriel Kendall.

Peter was an extraordinary colleague and friend. His dedication and commitment to improving the lives of others was undeniable. He brought energy, warmth, humour and a sense of for-ness for others that is sorely missed. He leaves a very big space.

We are heartbroken for his family at this unthinkably difficult time, and grateful for their generosity of spirit in opening this space for others to share thoughts and feelings.

With deepest condolences,
Philippa Frances and Emma Gollings.

You will be greatly missed dear Peter. RIP.
Lots of love to Maryanne, Eugene and Tilda.
Ruth x