A life lived to the full: A tribute to Michael Beatty

It is with a heavy heart today that we share the loss of our beloved Michael Beatty.

Michael was much-loved at the RSPCA as our Senior Media Advisor, Community Relations Manager and Spokesperson for 17 years. His cheeky banter and passion were unmatched.

In 2019, Michael was awarded a Medal of the Order of Australia for his service to animal welfare, but in true Michael style, he dedicated his award to everyone else. “While I am truly honoured and humbled by this award, I should point out that it belongs to all the staff and volunteers at RSPCA Qld. It is the vets, vet nurses, inspectors, ambos, animal attendants and volunteers who strive every day to help all animals that deserve the accolade, not me. I am just ‘the messenger’.”

Even since his retirement in 2021, Michael has never been a stranger to the RSPCA, always popping in for a chat, donating newspapers for our wildlife hospital, and continuing to host talks about the RSPCA and his book at social groups.

Michael had an illustrious career as a journalist prior to the RSPCA. He travelled far and wide, interviewed royalty, and celebrities. And despite all of that, he shared this at his retirement:

"But honestly, and I mean this sincerely, I think I can truthfully say that the work at the RSPCA from a satisfaction point of view has been the most satisfying. And I really mean that."

While we all feel a heavy loss for a top bloke and animal advocate, our thoughts are also with Michael’s family and friends during this difficult time.

Farewell to our colleague and great mate Michael, thank you for all that you did for the animals... your memory will continue to live on.