Family, friends, and Queensland’s hospitality community are mourning the loss of renowned restaurateur John Kilroy, whose death is believed to have been confirmed after a body was discovered during the search for the 73-year-old in Brisbane.
Mr. Kilroy had been staying with friends in Brisbane while undergoing treatment for cancer, a battle he had reportedly faced over the past five years. According to those close to him, he left for a walk along the Brisbane River on Sunday evening but failed to return, prompting concern and a police search.
Friends said Mr. Kilroy had been experiencing significant pain while receiving treatment and became worried when he did not come back from his walk. Authorities were notified, and an extensive search was launched.
Queensland Police confirmed that a body was located at a car park on Howard Street in Brisbane City on Monday morning. While formal identification remains ongoing, the body is believed to be that of John Kilroy. Police have stated that the death is not being treated as suspicious.
Originally from Western Queensland, John Kilroy built an outstanding reputation in Australia’s hospitality industry over a career spanning more than four decades. He owned and operated numerous pubs, restaurants, and function venues, becoming one of Queensland’s most respected figures in the restaurant business.
He was perhaps best known as the owner of Brisbane’s iconic Cha Cha Char steakhouse, a landmark dining destination that attracted politicians, business leaders, mining executives, and visitors from across Australia. After selling the celebrated restaurant in 2020, Mr. Kilroy retired from the hospitality industry and relocated to Hervey Bay.
Tributes have begun pouring in from friends, colleagues, and members of Queensland’s hospitality community, who remember him as a passionate businessman, respected mentor, and larger-than-life personality whose contributions helped shape Brisbane’s dining scene.
