The Sydney community is grieving the heartbreaking loss of Kyle Leonard, a 24-year-old apprentice greenkeeper at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG), who was tragically found deceased after being reported missing.
Kyle had been last seen at approximately 4:50 a.m. on Saturday, August 2, in the suburb of Matraville, sparking immediate concern among friends, family, and colleagues. After hours of silence and growing worry for his wellbeing, Kyle’s loved ones confirmed the devastating news of his passing.
Kyle’s disappearance was described as highly out of character. His phone had been turned off, and there had been no communication from him, prompting a widespread search effort.
Police were notified early in the day, and his family issued a public plea for information through social media, hoping someone might have seen or heard from him. Sadly, those hopes were met with tragedy when news of Kyle’s death was confirmed.
Born and raised in Sydney, Kyle was a former student of Patrician Brothers’ College, Blacktown, and had recently begun building a promising career at one of Australia’s most iconic sporting venues, the SCG.
As an apprentice greenkeeper, he took immense pride in maintaining the grounds where sporting legends made history. His colleagues recall him as hard-working, enthusiastic, and full of potential — someone who loved the game and took pride in his craft.
Kyle was also a beloved son, partner, and friend. He lived in Sydney with his girlfriend, Amanda Longbottom, with whom he shared a close and loving relationship.
Amanda, along with Kyle’s family and friends, had been desperately searching for answers in the hours after his disappearance. Their anguish was compounded by the suddenness and unexpected nature of Kyle’s vanishing — a situation described by those closest to him as deeply out of character.
Social media quickly filled with messages of support and prayers from the community. “We love you Kyle, we just want to know you are safe,” read one of the earliest and most shared posts. Tragically, that plea turned into messages of mourning and remembrance.
“Kyle had a quiet strength and a kind heart,” said a close friend. “He was the kind of person who would give you the shirt off his back, always ready with a joke or a helping hand. He had so much life ahead of him.”
Though the official cause of death has not yet been publicly confirmed, authorities are continuing their investigation. Out of respect for the family’s privacy, details surrounding the circumstances of Kyle’s passing remain limited.
The SCG community, Kyle’s schoolmates, and friends across Sydney have expressed profound sadness over his loss. Many have shared photos, memories, and heartfelt tributes, painting a portrait of a young man whose warmth, integrity, and quiet determination left a lasting impression.
Kyle’s passing is a sobering reminder of how precious and fragile life can be. As his loved ones begin to navigate the pain of this unexpected loss, they are united in grief and in celebration of the time they were privileged to share with him.
Funeral and memorial service details will be shared by the family in the coming days. In the meantime, the Leonard and Longbottom families are asking for privacy as they mourn the loss of a beloved son, partner, and friend.
