Tributes for Penola teenager Max Gartner tragically killed in motorcycle crash at Glenroy

Friends and family are mourning the loss of a teenager after he was tragically killed in a motorcycle crash near Penola in SA’s South-East.

Touching tributes have been laid at the site of the crash where an 18-year-old man from Penola lost his life over the weekend. Picture: Jessica Dempster

An 18-year-old man from Penola who tragically lost his life in a crash at Glenroy, near Penola in the state’s South-East, is being remembered as a “loving” lad with a “cheeky grin”.

Max Gartner of Penola was killed in a motorcycle crash last Friday when the bike he was riding west along Glenroy Bool Lagoon Road lost control and crashed around 8:20pm.

Max Gartner. Picture: Facebook

The Mount Gambier Junior Motorcycle Club paid tribute to its “beloved club member” in a Facebook post on Thursday.

“It is with immense sadness that we share the news of the passing of our beloved club member, Max Gartner on 2nd February 2024. Max was a cherished member of our community, and his presence will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

“Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences are with Max’s family and friends during this difficult time. We know this is a shock and immense loss, and we want them to know they are not alone in their grief. RIP Maxy #forever18” the post said.

“A laugh, a grin, a joke or two, that’s the way we’ll remember you. Some will walk through the pearly gates, some will ride.

Mr Gartner’s life was sixth life lost on SA Roads this year compared with 13 at the same time last year.

He is remembered as being a loving son to his parents and a “loved big baby brother” to his two older siblings.

Tributes and flowers have been left the scene of the crash.

A celebration of his life will be held in Mount Gambier on February 15, at 1pm.