Fr T.J. Linane, From Abel to Zundolovich, Vol. 1, 1979, p 34:

Butler, Thomas Very Rev., Irish
One of the Men of '38, and Refused a Mitre
The Launceston Pastor of 35 years standing must be rated among the greats of the last century. Hartigan in 'The Men of '38' gives him only brief mention, in comparison with the others that he glorifies. b. 1810 in Ballyrallan, Co. Kilkenny; ed. K'enny and MH; arr. Syd. on the 'Francis Speight', 31.12.1838. Prob. he had been ordained before coming. Arr. Hobart on the 'Marion Watson', 31.3.1839, with a letter to Fr. J.J. Therry V.G. from Dr. Polding: "a valuable cooperator in the ministry". The first five years were spent at Richmond where he had a roving commission to care for places as far north as Launceston. Then an appointment to live permanently in Launceston, something he had been seeking. The appointment was to last for 35 years. He built the Church of the Apostles, introduced the Presentation Sisters in 1872 etc. These and other achievements are told in Cardinal Moran's History (p. 228) and in Fr. W.T. Southerwood's book 'Planting a Faith in Launceston'. The latter work describes Father Tom's relations with the Irish Exiles, his part in their escape, especially that of John Mitchell who was concealed in the church belfry and provided with a priest's disguise. Despite pressure to have a bishopric he was adamant in refusing, finally getting his way. Northern Tasmania owes much to this colourful and hardy pioneer who died as the result of a severe attack of rheumatism on 20.8.1880; age 70.
(Footprints, Vol. 1, No. 10)
Ref.: as listed above.