Ryan Hickling killed in shock motorcycle crash outside Bundaberg, QLD

Friends of popular 20-year-old rider, who worked for the iconic company behind Bundaberg Ginger Beer, are rallying to support his family following his death in a horror crash between two motorcycles and a HiLux. LATEST.

Friends of popular Bundaberg Brewed Drinks worker Ryan Hickling are rallying to support the 20 -year-old’s family with the launch of a fundraiser to help cover funeral costs following his tragic death.

Friends of popular Bundaberg Brewed Drinks worker Ryan Hickling are rallying to support the 20-year-old’s family with the launch of a fundraiser to help cover funeral costs following his tragic death.

The GoFundMe campaign, organised by a group of Mr Hickling’s friends, has already raised more than $3000 within two hours of its launch.

Organiser Zak Pearson hopes to raise $15,000 to cover funeral expenses for the Thabeban man’s family.

“He was such a great mate to so many people always looking out for everyone, always had people’s best interest at heart,” Mr Pearson said in the campaign post.

“We are reaching out to the community for your help, anything will be very appreciated.”

Mr Hickling died in a crash between a Toyota HiLux and two motorcycles at the intersection of Cedars and Childers Roads at Elliott on the evening of Wednesday, October 30.

According to the Queensland Ambulance Service, another man in his 20s suffered arm and leg injuries and was taken to Bundaberg Base Hospital while a third man, in his 40s, suffered chest injuries and was also taken to hospital.

Ryan Hickling was killed in a horrific crash involving a Toyota HiLux and two motorcycles at Elliott when the vehicles collided at the Cedars Rd and Childers Rd intersection around 6pm on Wednesday, October 30.

A friend who asked to remain anonymous, paid tribute to Ryan on Thursday.

“Ryan was such a fun hearted and funny guy always so fun to be around,” they said

“He was always there for everyone, and it breaks our heart that he isn’t here anymore.

“He was such a beautiful soul that was taken from us all way too soon.”

Ryan and a group of friends had spent the day riding in the Childers area and were on their way back to Bundaberg when the crash happened.

None of the riders were speeding at the time “and it was just a wrong place at the wrong time” his friend said.

Bundaberg Brewed Drinks head of marketing Penny Glasson said Ryan’s death was like losing a member of the family.

Mr Hickling and a group of friends had spent a the day riding in the Childers area and were on their way back to Bundaberg when the crash happened. Picture: Facebook

The 20-year-old had been with the company for two years, having started with an apprenticeship and working with the engineering team.

“It’s tough,” Ms Glasson said.

“Everyone is very upset.”

“Our thoughts go out to his family, his friends, and his colleagues,” Ms Glasson said.

The tragedy sparked an outpouring of grief from the community on social media.

One friend commented “ride in paradise. My condolences to the family and close friends you will be missed mate”.

Another commenter wrote “Condolences to the family and friends. RIP. Ride like the wind”.

The road was closed for a number of hours with motorists advised to seek alternative routes.

The Forensic Crash Unit is investigating and anyone who witnessed the crash or has any dashcam vision is urged to contact police.

Court reveals fate of proposed new Bargara shopping centre

‘Gut-wrenching’ noise: Brickie who speared dingo was just trying to scare it