Big crowd’s tribute to Northern NSW identity Jack Crittle
People held hands, danced, wept and told stories - in honour of a man who touched many hearts and was gone too soon. Coverage from the Jack Crittle memorial service:
Community News
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Tears, joyful memories and of course music marked a public memorial service at New Brighton today for Jack Crittle.
More than 100 people gathered in Tom Kendall Reserve opposite the Yum Yum Tree Cafe to pay tribute to the young DJ whose energy and passion seemingly knew no bounds.
Mr Crittle, 26, was involved in a single vehicle car crash south of Coffs Harbour when his black Audi hit a culvert on the Pacific Motorway.
He managed to move a short distance clear of the wreckage before succumbing to his injuries.
His body lay undiscovered for as long as four days, until a truck driver - caught in traffic from an unrelated collision - saw the car on November 28.
Today, the community gathered to pay its respects to a man - who despite his youth - had become something of a local identity in the Northern Rivers.
People held hands, danced, wept and told stories - in honour of a man who touched many hearts and was gone too soon.
The reserve was decorated with rainbow banners and bright flowers.
The fond memories were everywhere.
When Mr Crittle was not working as a waiter at the Yum Yum Tree cafe, he enjoyed wood chopping competitions, surfing, playing rugby and floating down rivers with his friends.
Mr Crittle’s childhood friend and pole dancer, Briana Pearl, 27, said the cafe was his second home.
“Jack spent lots of time in his last week at my house showing me tricks on my pole, I can still feel his energy dancing around my house,” Ms Pearl said.
Yum Yum Tree barista Amber Macfarlane, 28, teared up, recalling Mr Crittle as a well-loved member of the community who she misses working with.
“He had a connection with everyone, the customers loved him,” Ms Macfarlane said.
The tributes were heartfelt at the memorial service.
“Jack lived with joy and passion, thanks for making this world a better place, brother,” one said.
“He was an absolute legend,” added another.
Mourners spoke of Mr Crittle’s “infectious energy”, and his love for community and music.
There were funny moments too.
“The last thing I said to Jack is don’t do burnouts on my lawn, and I have burnout marks on my lawn,” one laughed.
“I hope his legacy will live on forever.”
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