Community mourns 'legend' coach Ray Nicol killed in tragic Esplanade crash
Tributes flow for 'exceptional' Fraser Coast swim coach Ray Nicol, killed in an alleged hit-and-run while training for his next triathlon.
A gofundme has been launched for the devastated family left behind following the death of Fraser Coast triathlete, coach and lifeguard Ray Nicol in an alleged hit and run in the early hours of Friday, November 14, 2025.
The 57-year-old Mr Nicol died after being allegedly hit by a car at the corner of Banksia St and the Esplanade, Point Vernon about 4.30am.
A gofundme launched over the weekend by Amanda Walker on behalf of Mr Nicol’s long-time partner Fiona Walker, had raised close to $5000 by Monday morning.
In it, Ms Walker writes:
“On Friday, 14 November, our family’s world changed forever.
“Ray Nicol — beloved partner of 32 years, father figure, brother-in-law, and friend to so many — was tragically killed in an (alleged) hit-and-run on the Esplanade at Point Vernon.
“Despite every effort from first responders and medical teams, Ray passed away from his injuries.
“Ray was the centre of Fiona’s life for more than three decades. They built their entire adult lives together. His loss is sudden, traumatic, and has left her devastated, heartbroken, and facing an uncertain future.
“His sudden death leaves a massive emotional void for Fiona, and serious financial strain. Funds raised will go directly toward: Funeral and memorial costs; immediate living expenses while Fiona grieves and stabilises; any additional support Fiona needs in the coming months.”
Ms Walker said Mr Nicol was “deeply loved — not just by Fiona, but by his wider community”.
“He was a well-known lifeguard and a swim coach, working at both the Hervey Bay and Maryborough aquatic centres. Ray also spent countless hours with the Maryborough/Howard Obedience Club, unlocking better communication, trust, and teamwork between owners and their dogs.
“He was a steady presence at training days, always ready with guidance, encouragement, and a gentle word.
“Ray was one of those people who would give you the shirt off his back.
“He deserved so much more than to have his life taken this way. Our family is determined to honour him properly and ensure my sister is not alone in picking up the pieces.”
People could help by donating to the gofundme, “even a small amount — it would mean more than words can express”.
“If you can’t donate, please consider sharing this page to help us reach others who knew and loved Ray,” she said.
“Fiona has lost her partner of 32 years, and this support will help her carry on in a way that honours Ray’s memory and gives her some stability in a very uncertain time.
“Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for being here for her — for us — during this unimaginable loss.”
Mr Nicol was often seen over the years walking the Esplanade with his beloved dogs or training for triathlons.
He was rushed to Hervey Bay Hospital after being hit on Friday morning, but could not be saved.
A 20-year-old driver of a silver Hyundai IX35, Riley John Groves, has been charged over his death and will face Hervey Bay Magistrates Court on Monday afternoon.
The Maryborough Aquatic Centre, where Mr Nicol had worked and left behind devastated colleagues and friends, was closed on Saturday in the wake of the tragedy and staff were being offered counselling.
In a statement on Saturday, Fraser Coast Regional Council CEO Ken Diehm paid tribute to a valued member of our council team and someone who made a tremendous contribution to the Fraser Coast over many decades”.
“He worked at both the Hervey Bay and Maryborough aquatic centres and was widely respected for his knowledge, experience and the support he gave to others,” Mr Diehm said.
“As a lifeguard and swimming coach, his dedication, warmth and passion for helping people shone through every aspect of his work.
“Ray helped generations of young people learn to swim and he also mentored many of our staff as they developed their own skills and careers.
“Our staff are deeply saddened by his passing. Many considered Ray not just a colleague but a friend, and this has been very hard on them.
“On behalf of Council, I extend our heartfelt condolences to Ray’s family, his friends, and the many people whose lives he touched.”
Maryborough Aquatic Centre offered heartwarming condolences on their Facebook.
“It is with great sadness that we share the passing of Maryborough Aquatic Centre’s TCS/Squad Coach, Ray,” they posted.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, and all staff here at the Maryborough Aquatic Centre during this difficult time.
“We honour Ray’s incredible contribution over the past 30 years in the industry, including 10 years here at Maryborough, where he made a lasting impact on our organisation and the community he served.
“He will be dearly missed.”
Meanwhile, a makeshift memorial at the crash site, where a large heart drawn in chalk and encircling a bouquet of native flowers next to two tea light candles, was growing on Saturday.
Mr Nicol was expected to compete in the Hervey Bay 100 triathlon at the weekend.
A statement on the Hervey Bay Triathlon Club Facebook page read: “As we head into the biggest weekend of our club year, please keep some quiet thoughts for the loss of Ray, a trusted and respected coach, but also a great man who was taken from us this morning in tragic circumstances.
“Many of our members, especially those Maryborough based ones were helped by his skill, knowledge and passion to help athletes achieve their goals.
“Rest in peace Ray.”
The post was met with a flood of tributes.
“A great person who touched the lives of many,” Orla Gallagher said.
“Passionate about his coaching, always going above and beyond for others.
“Supported everyone with achieving their goals and lots of jokes along the way.
“Ray will be greatly missed. May he rest in peace.”
“The man who taught so many to swim with a dedication that was pure and unwavering, the steady guidance of a sure hand and the heart of a genuine top bloke,” Tristan Anderson commented.
“You’ll be missed Rayzor!”
“He was one of those exceptional humans who touched the lives of many. You will be missed Ray,” Andrea Giles wrote.
“I could never thank Ray enough for his help over the years,” Anne-Maree Grainger said.
“Always so enthusiastic about swimming. He and his stopwatch will be sadly missed.”
“Just tragic. Razor was a legend,” Travis George said.
“So hard to believe he is gone.”
Police allege that following the crash Mr Groves fled the scene and did not help the injured coach.
It’s further alleged police found the Hyundai at an Urraween address 30 minutes later and Mr Groves was arrested.
He has since been charged with dangerous operation of a vehicle causing death, failure to remain at the scene and render assistance, dangerous operation of a vehicle, and drugs and weapons offences.
Officers are appealing to anyone who may have information or any relevant vision to contact police.
