Fraser Coast community pays tribute to Brody Smith

Family members, sporting organisations and schools have led hundreds of tributes to the popular young larrikin whose life was cut tragically short while driving to what should have been a long weekend camping trip with his mates.

There has been an outpouring of grief from across the Fraser Coast and beyond following the tragic death of 18-year-old Brody Smith.

The Fraser Coast Anglican College sporting and house captain was killed in a horror crash at Tuan Forest while travelling with mates to Tin Can Bay on Friday, September 30, for the long weekend.

The story had more than 500 reactions and about 100 comments from people who knew Brody and many who did not, but who were shocked and saddened by what had happened.

Brody’s aunt, Leesa Smith, paid tribute to her beloved nephew on social media on Sunday, October 2.

“I know wherever you are that you’re flying high beautiful Brodes - all 6 foot fabulous 6 of you…I’ll remain strong until we meet again on the flip side,” she posted.

“Love you forever my gorgeous gentle giant.”

Brody Smith and Charlotte Hilton arrived at the formal in a 2018 Ford Mustang.

Fellow aunty Alison Smith also shared a heartbreaking tribute online.

“Brody and some friends were heading away camping for the long weekend because Brody loved his friends and embraced life to the full,” Ms Smith said on Facebook.

“He lived an amazing life, was incredibly happy and excelled in everything he did, particularly sport with those incredible long legs of his.

“We are beyond heartbroken but will treasure many beautiful memories. Love you always and forever Brody.”

The Hervey Bay Basketball Association also paid tribute to the teen.

“Our basketball community was devastated by the news of the passing of one of our own...” the post said.

“Not only was he an extremely talented player, he was an amazing young man and a mentor to the kids he coached and his team mates.

“No words can describe such a tragedy. It has left a huge hole in our basketball community and his infectious smile will be missed by all who had the pleasure to be in his presence.

“Our thoughts are with his family during this time. Your basketball family is here for you.”

Brody Smith walked the red carpet at the Fraser Coast Anglican College formal on September 16.

Maryborough State High School principal Simon Done is among those in the community who have shared tributes on social media.

“On behalf of our school family to yours, our deepest sympathies and condolences,” Mr Done said.

Hundreds more tributes have also been shared online for the beloved teen.

“This is so sad to read. Another young man with world at his feet tragically taken far too soon. Sincere condolences to his loving family, school mates and many many friends on your very sad loss,” Kathy Sturgiss posted.

“I can’t even begin to understand how absolutely devastating and heartbreaking this must be for his family and friends. My heart goes out to you all. So sorry for your loss,” Gillian Patterson commented.

Friends have shared photos of Brody on social media. Photo: Facebook.

“So heartbreaking. Love and deepest condolences to his family and friends. Such a lovely young man taken too soon. RIP Brody,” Melissa Budworth said on Facebook.

“That’s such a tragedy, to family, friends and FCAC community, so sorry for your loss,” Jo Raye commented.

FCAC principal Joe Wright also paid tribute to the young teenager who was just weeks away from graduating high school.

“The Fraser Coast Anglican College community is deeply saddened after the passing of one of our students, Brody Smith,” Mr Wright said.

“Our deepest condolences are with Brody’s family and friends at this time and we hold them close in our thoughts and prayers.

“Brody was a popular and well-respected student who has built many connections across the College through his leadership positions as Sport Captain, House Captain and coach.

“His passing will be felt deeply across all levels of our college community.

“Special counselling services have been made available for students when they return to school on Tuesday and will be ongoing to support the wellbeing of anyone affected by this tragic event.”

Just two weeks ago, Brody celebrated his school formal with fellow students at the Beach House Hotel.

This publication was there to capture red carpet arrivals where he made quite an impact wearing sunglasses and a pair of Crocs shoes.

On Friday, September 30, tributes began to flow on social media for Brody.

“Absolutely devastating, such a great kid and will be missed by so many, condolences to this beautiful young man’s family. RIP,” Simone Stern said on Facebook.

“Absolutely heartbreaking. Thoughts and prayers to this young man’s family. Only a fortnight ago they were celebrating their Year 12 formal. It’s so devastating,” Ainslie Taylor commented.

The forensic crash unit is investigating.