Tragedy as talented athlete Tommy Oswald dies aged just 33 after becoming known as 'Australia's nicest bloke' thanks to a stunning act of generosity
Oswald, 33, captured the hearts of the nation in 2015 by taking in his homeless, pregnant teenage cousin when she had nowhere else to turn.
The athlete also founded the very popular Facebook page Athletes Australia, a community with more than 35,000 members.
On Saturday, a post to the page shared the tragic news of Oswald's death.
'This is by far the hardest post I have ever had to write in this group and just a warning that this may be very tough to read,' Tim Ohthy wrote.
'I am devastated to let everyone know that yesterday the founder of this amazing group Tommy Oswald passed away suddenly.
'Tommy was not only passionate about athletics, but just a damn good human being. Whilst always being up for a laugh and quick to take the piss out of anything and everything, he was equally quick when it came to supporting a mate, looking after family or just helping a complete stranger out.
'He had an incredibly kind heart, which he shared with MANY people both inside this group and outside.
'My thoughts are with his wife Alana and his little girl Ella during this tough time. As well as the rest of his family, close friends, work colleagues and basically anyone who had the pleasure of meeting Tommy.'
Oswald's family also released a statement.
'The world is a lesser place today after the death of Tommy Oswald. Tommy, 33, was a beautiful young father and loving husband, who had a huge impact on the lives of all who knew him,' they said.
'Police are investigating the cause of his death, and his wife Alana and extended family have asked for privacy during this terrible time.
'They will not be making any further comment.'
Oswald's cousin Kiarna, whom he took in 10 years ago, posted to Facebook: 'I'm so broken that you're gone it's breaking my heart. Tommy you will always be my favourite cousin, I love you forever.'
Shattered Aussie runners have posted tributes to Oswald online
A swathe of shattered Australian athletes have also posted tributes online, including Jane Fleming, Sally Pearson and Melinda Gainsford-Taylor.
Olympian Glynis Nunn posted: 'Tommy spoke to everyone on the ground and just loved his family and friends. Never too busy for anyone. Opened his heart to all. A tragic loss to the community far and wide. Prayers to his family.'
One of Oswald's friends, Jason Wright, has set up a GoFundMe page to support his devastated family.
'I am privileged to have been Tommy's mate for 10 years,' he posted.
'He was the guy that helps you move, jumps on a ladder and helps you paint a gutter, picks you up from the pub drunk or goes for a long beach walk and listens to your problems.
'Many of my network and friends have been privileged to experience his friendship and/or had the opportunity to work with him and I am now asking you to help his family with a gesture of goodwill.'
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