Nathan Weckert identified as teenager killed in roadside Bruce Highway crash

The community has rallied around Nathan Weckert’s family after he was killed in a Bruce Highway crash with more than $11,000 raised in just hours.

The community has rallied around the family of “happy go lucky” teenager Nathan Weckert who was killed in a Bruce Highway crash with more than $11,000 raised towards his funeral.

The 17-year-old was killed in a roadside crash on the Bruce Highway on Monday night after he was struck by a passing vehicle.

A statement from police said Nathan had been travelling north near Palmview on the highway when his car was understood to have hit a guardrail.

The police statement said Nathan had exited his vehicle and was waiting for help in the emergency stopping lane when another northbound car allegedly collided with him about 8pm.

He leaves behind parents Jason and Shannon and siblings Corey, Jordyn and Ryan.

Loved ones Samantha Edwards and Keira Burgess created a GoFundMe Page on behalf of the family.

In a matter of hours since the pair launched the campaign, more than 140 donors had pitched in to raise more than $11,000.

Included in the campaign was a touching tribute.

“Nathan was an amazing young man who was hilarious, a prankster, an incredible footballer and athlete, a loyal friend and loved his family with everything that he had,” it read.

“Nathan lived life to the fullest and he did everything with much integrity and passion.

“Nathan‘s family are grateful for the love and support during this difficult time. It would be an incredible blessing if we can come together financially to support them as they work through the grief of losing a son and brother.

“We love you Nathan and you have left behind a legacy that you will be fondly remembered for.”

The driver of the second vehicle was rushed to the Sunshine Coast University Hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

Nathan tragically died at the scene.

The Sunshine Coast’s tight-knit footballing circles were left devastated by the news.

Well known Sunshine Coast identity Rui Spinola coached Nathan and knew his family well.

Mr Spinola mentored Nathan through his ATFA Football program from under-8s and described him as a “cheeky but respectful” person who had a huge future in the game.

“I suppose he was a bit of a scallywag in a way but always respectfully,” Mr Spinola said.

“He would always say hello, shake your hand, give you a hug.

Brisbane club Olympic FC shared a touching tribute to Nathan Weckert who was killed in a crash on the Bruce Highway at Palmview on Monday.

“He always wanted a laugh, he didn’t mind some banter, a typical Aussie.”

Mr Spinola said that Nathan was playing upfront at the age of 16 in Noosa’s first team, a testament to his ability.

“Nathan was a damn fine footballer, played for Noosa, rep football for the Sunshine Coast,” he said.

“The football community is tight-knit and he comes from a wonderful family. This is going to affect a lot of people.”

Sunshine Coast Wanderers coach Paul Arnison said Nathan was a “happy go lucky” kid who would go out of his way to make people smile.

Mr Arnison said the footballing community was heartbroken.

“He was such a loveable kid and a fantastic footballer,” Mr Arnison said.

“So polite, funny and from a lovely family.

“My heart breaks for them.”

Mr Arnison coached Nathan at junior representative level and had attempted to sign him to the Wanderers earlier this season.

Noosa Lions have paid tribute to one of their own, Nathan Weckert, who was killed in a Bruce Highway crash on Monday night.

He said Nathan had the rare ability to play anywhere across the park.

Mr Arnison recalled a rep game grand final where he asked Nathan to fill in for a suspended player at centre back, despite him playing the entire tournament at striker.

“He was the best player on the park that day,” he said.

“You could ask him to play in goal and he would.

“Athletic, strong, wouldn’t shy away from a tackle, there’s no reason why he couldn’t have gone onto the next level.

“It’s such a tragedy.”

Noosa Lions Football Club president Brian Stockwell said he was devastated by the news.

“Nathan has been a valued member of our club and his family has a long association with us,” Mr Stockwell said.

“We just extend our thoughts and wishes to them at this time.”

Nathan played for Brisbane club Olympic FC’s under-23s side.

Olympic FC took to social media to express its condolences.

“Nathan played in our U23’s side, scoring in the weekend’s game against Gold Coast Knights,” they said.

“Nathan’s beautiful nature, his permanent smile, his incredible strength and determination will be greatly missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family at this tragic time.”

It comes after earlier in August Queensland Police released shocking statistics from this year’s road toll that showed more than 170 people had died in road accidents.

Anyone with information relating to this incident or relevant dashcam footage from that area is urged to contact police.

The Forensic Crash Unit is investigating.