Phillip Curnow remembered as a ‘true gem’ of the Territory

Heartbroken family and friends of a father killed in a tragic truck crash have paid tribute to a ‘true gem’ of the Territory.

HEARTBROKEN family and friends of a father killed in a truck crash have paid tribute to a “true gem” of the Territory.

Phillip Curnow, 48, was killed when when the Cleanaway truck he was driving rolled on the Stuart Highway south of Alice Springs earlier this month.

Hundreds of shocked and saddened locals paid their ­respects to Mr Curnow, who grew in Alice Springs.

The truck driver was well-known in the community, with friends and family ­remembering his “kind”, “gentle”, and “cheeky” ­nature.

“He will be sadly missed but never forgotten, his big heart, his humour and his loving big bear hugs, he had a heart of gold, we will all miss him so much,” wrote one family member in an online forum.

Phillip Curnow is being remembered as a ‘true gem’ of the Territory. Picture: Supplied.

“RIP mate,” a friend commented. “The world has definitely lost a true gem of a bloke ... a real character.”

Another wrote: “Will ­remember the laughs most of all, there were always plenty when you were involved. Rest easy Curnow.”

Many sent their con­dolences to the 48-year-old’s partner, Carol Smith, and parents Gary and Rosslyn.

Others shared their happy memories of growing up with Mr Curnow in the Centre.

“Memories of you being a cheeky young bloke around Braitling. Always good for a laugh though,” wrote one childhood friend.

Phillip Curnow with partner Carol Smith.

Another commented: “While we got into mischief together as kids growing up, he was a good friend among friends ... will be sadly missed.”

“Had the pleasure of growing up with Phillip, he was an amazing human being always looking out for me,” recalled yet another friend.

NT Police said they were investigating the crash, which happened near Stuarts Well.

A report will be prepared for the Northern Territory coroner.

A celebration of Mr Curnow’s life will be held at the Alice Springs Garden Cemetery Chapel on Monday, May 30, at 10am.

The service will be followed by a wake at the Alice Springs Turf Club from 11.30am-3pm.

One dead in fatal truck rollover

THE driver of a road train has died after his vehicle rolled on a stretch of the Stuart Highway 110km south of Alice Springs.

NT Police say the 48-year-old man was declared deceased at the scene.

An investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash has commenced.

Police say around 7.40am on Friday, officers received reports that a commercial truck had rolled on the highway, about 20km south of Stuarts Well.

In a statement, Detective Acting Senior Sergeant Corey Borton said, “Investigators are on scene and are expected to remain for the rest of the day.

“Diversions and speed restrictions are in place and police are urging motorists to avoid the area if possible. If you are in the area please slow down and follow all member directions.

“A report will be prepared for the coroner.”

Earlier, police said the vehicle’s cab and three trailers had overturned.

Originally published as Phillip Curnow remembered as a ‘true gem’ of the Territory