The advice industry is mourning the loss of Bongiorno Group director, Tony Bongiorno, who died last week after an accident while cycling for charity. 

Financial Advice Association Australia’s Phil Anderson says Mr Bongiorno, 68, was a “much-loved and well-respected member” of the profession. 

“He had a long and distinguished career in building up financial advice in Australia to what it is today,” Mr Anderson told insuranceNEWS.com.au. 

“He was much-admired by his colleagues and made such a positive impact on everyone around him. His passing is a huge loss to our profession.” 

Mr Bongiorno was a founding partner of the Bongiorno Group, a wealth advisory firm that started in 1964 focused on medical and dental professionals’ financial services needs including insurance.  

Financial services consultant Clifton Warren described Mr Bongiorno as an “industry legend” and “a one of kind that we may never see again”. 

“Tony had a thirst for knowledge. Tony's ability to build and run such a business successfully displayed his deep understanding of the financial industry and the skills to manage a variety of financial services,” Mr Clifton told insuranceNEWS.com.au. 

“He was a coach, mentor to industry professionals and the ultimate trusted adviser to his clients.” 

Bongiorno Group CEO Margaret Mote described him as an “an irrepressible man” who was a mentor, leader and father figure to so many people. 

“Tony was the most caring, giving, kind person. He had a unique way of making people feel important and special, always taking the time to listen and to care,” she said. 

“Tony adored his clients. He celebrated their achievements as if they were his own and stood alongside them through their challenges. 

“We will forever be inspired by Tony and will ensure his legacy lives on forever. We commit to remembering him by sharing his love and dedication to everyone in his life; clients and colleagues, family and friends.” 

A funeral obituary says Mr Bongiorno was actively involved in various charitable endeavours, supporting causes related to education, healthcare, and underprivileged communities. 

“His charity rides raised substantial funds for various causes, demonstrating the power of sport to drive positive change,” it says. 

The obituary says during the charity ride he was involved in a severe accident.