September 3, 2014
Former Kingaroy resident Andrew Butwell – who became a paraplegic after an alleged assault in Brisbane in 2007 – has been named Queensland’s 2014 Father of the Year.
Andrew, 47, has successfully raised four children despite being confined to a wheelchair.
Andrew was nominated for the award by his proud dad, former South Burnett GP Dr Brad Butwell.
His mum Ann told southburnett.com.au earlier this week that Andrew, who now lives at Everton Hills, was riding his pushbike on a bikeway at Arana Hills when the incident occurred – just 10 days after Dr Butwell had retired from his practice.
“He was found the next morning. He had 13 broken ribs, a fractured skull and a broken back,” she said.
And although no one was ever charged over the incident, both Ann and Dr Brad are sure the injuries were not the result of an accident.
Andrew was found head down under a bridge, where they believe his attackers threw him.
He was named Brisbane North Father of the Year earlier this year and competed against six other regional winners from across the State for the main award.
The Butwells travelled to Brisbane for today’s announcement.
“From the moment he came out of hospital he was completely self-sufficient,” Dr Brad said.
Within a short period, Andrew was back working full-time.
Later, his marriage broke down and Andrew became the primary carer for his children.
What a wonderful story – I’d wondered if it was Dr Butwell’s son. I remember the story. Congrats to all!
Well deserved. He was my doctor when I was a teen and the twins were in my class. A real dad and a real family. Congratulations.
Congratulations to Andrew and to his two wonderful parents who have endured life’s many difficulties. Brad maybe “Grandfather of Year is appropriate for you and Ann “Grandmother of the year” would be appropriate for you.