Michael Bridge remembered after fatal Gold Coast hinterland motorcycle crash

The family of a man killed in a Gold Coast motorcycle crash at the weekend has revealed their shock at the loss of a “loving and energetic” grandfather.

A younger Michael Bridge. Picture – contributed.

The family of a man killed in a motorcycle crash at the weekend has revealed their shock at the loss of a “loving and energetic” father, uncle, and grandfather.

The daughter-in-law of crash victim Michael Bridge, 48, said the Pimpama man always put his children and grandchildren first and the family was still coming to terms with the tragedy.

Mr Bridge died in a single motorcycle traffic crash at the Gold Coast hinterland on Sunday, January 29.

According to police, preliminary information indicated he was travelling on Tamborine Oxenford Rd, through Wongawallan about 5pm when he lost control of the motorcycle and crashed – Mr Bridge was declared dead at the scene.

He has been remembered as a loving father to Mikey, Joshua and Shakira. He was a proud Poppy to Lacie, Hudson, Esme, Olivia and had more grandchildren on the way.

Michael Bridge with one of his beloved grandchildren. Picture – contributed.

Michelle Bridge, wife to Mr Bridge’s son Joshua, said the family was in shock following his death.

“Michael was so loving, energetic, young at heart, full of life and bold,” she said.

“Michael wore his heart on his sleeve and was so proud of his family.

“He was a hard worker, a great provider, and always put his children and grandchildren first.

“The accident has come to us all as such a shocking, surreal event to ever happen. Michael played a huge role in the lives close to him. He was always there, always having fun with a beer in hand and a smile on his face.

“He will be so dearly missed by so many people … one of a kind.”

48-year-old Michael Bridge, of Pimpama, died in a single motorcycle traffic crash at the Gold Coast hinterland, on Sunday, January 29. Picture – GoFundMe.

His daughter, Shakira Bridge, started a GoFundMe page for his funeral.

“Our whole worlds were shattered when we got the news that our beautiful father was involved in a motorcycle accident,” she said.

“The news has come as such a shock to our family.

“To explain how broken and lost we feel is an understatement.”

“He was a man loved by so many,” Miss Bridge said.

“He lived life to the fullest and was such a shining star in everyone’s life.

“He made such an impact in all the people’s lives he touched.

“He was always the one to give you a good laugh and a shoulder to cry on when needed.

“May you rest in peace daddy. Until I see you again.”

Since his tragic death, family and friends have shared heartbreaking tributes for the popular rider.

Michael Bridge with his son Joshua. Picture – Facebook.

A close friend of Mr Bridge’s, who was meant to go on that tragic ride, also shared a tribute on social media.

“I lost a great friend … going up to Mt Tamborine,” Stewart John Andrew said.

“He was riding with some friends … I pulled out of the ride for other reasons on Saturday night and he lost his life on the ride.

“I will surely miss my great close friend …. rest in peace in peace my friend … gone but not forgotten.”

The Forensic Crash Unit is investigating the circumstances of the crash. Anyone who may have witnessed the moments leading up to the crash or has dashcam footage is asked to contact police.