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:

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.

Photos: Jack Crittle’s heartwarming memorial

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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.

Family and friends gather at the park opposite the Yum Yum Tree Cafe on River St, New Brighton, to pay tribute to Jack Crittle. Picture: Savannah Pocock

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.

Photographs celebrating Jack Crittle were displayed on a tree at the service. Picture: Savannah Pocock

The reserve was decorated with rainbow banners and bright flowers.

The fond memories were everywhere.

Many spoke of Jack Crittle’s boundless energy. Picture: gofundme

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.

Jack Crittle was a big outdoorsman. Picture: Facebook

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 Cafe, December 2022. Picture: Savannah Pocock

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.

Family and friends pay tribute. Picture: Savannah Pocock

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.”