Ben Keelty: Hervey Bay Seagulls mourn beloved dad after worksite death

Former rugby league player and youth coach Ben Keelty has died in hospital, 20 days after a devastating four-metre fall at a Queensland worksite.

Ben Keelty, 40, was working on a building site at Urangan when he fell through the fibreglass sheeting in a skylight from a height of about four metres on July 9.

A beloved Hervey Bay dad is being mourned after he died from injuries he received when he fell through a sky light while at work in Urangan earlier this month.

Ben Keelty, 40, was working on a building site at Urangan when he fell through the fibreglass sheeting in a skylight from a height of about 4m on July 9.

His injuries included brain bleeds, swelling, a fractured skull, broken ribs and lower back fractures.

On Wednesday, it was revealed Mr Keelty had died in hospital in Brisbane on July 29, from those injuries.

“It is with heavy hearts that we acknowledge the tragic and unexpected passing of our good friend, Ben ‘BeeKay’ Keelty,” a post from Mr Keelty’s football club, Hervey Bay Seagulls, read.

“Benny was more than just a club man — he was family to many at the Hervey Bay Seagulls.

“From his years playing senior rugby league in the red and green, to his commitment off the field helping where he could (and often well beyond), BeeKay was a true embodiment of what it means to be a Seagull.

Ben Keelty was working on a building site when he fell through the fibreglass sheeting from a height of 4m.

“In 2024, he proudly stood beside the Under 8 Whites as an assistant coach, helping guide them to an unforgettable season.

“Just one of many contributions that reflected his passion, loyalty, and love for the game and our community.

“BeeKay’s impact will be remembered not only through the games played and the wins celebrated, but through the countless lives he touched with his kindness, humour, and generous spirit.

“We extend our deepest condolences to Ben’s family, friends, teammates and all who were lucky enough to know him — near and far.

“He will be sorely missed and never forgotten.

“Rest easy, BeeKay. Once a Seagull, always a Seagull.”

A GoFundMe page set up for Mr Keelty’s family in the wake of the incident has raised more than $4000.