Fundraiser launched, tributes flow for Sam Chrimes from Newcastle area after tragic fatal crash at Woolgoolga, near Coffs Harbour

A young Newcastle man who tragically died after the car he was driving crashed into a tree near Coffs Harbour had proposed to his childhood sweetheart just days earlier, it’s been revealed.

Sam Chrimes proposed to Vanessa Clarke on New Year's Eve just days before he was killed when the car he was driving hit a tree.

A young Newcastle man who tragically died after the car he was driving smashed into a tree near Coffs Harbour had proposed to his childhood sweetheart just days earlier.

His passenger who was initially listed as critical is now in a stable condition, a police spokesperson has confirmed.

Sam Chrimes, 26, from the Newcastle area, had been camping at Woolgoolga with a group of friends when he got down on one knee and proposed to his partner as they counted in the new year, an online fundraiser reveals.

The couple had been together since their teens and mutual friend Ben Johnston states the proposal was a dream come true. Mr Chrimes’ partner Vanessa immediately said yes.

Mr Johnston said the pair only spent two nights apart in a relationship which had already spanned almost nine years.

Sam Chrimes and Vanessa Clarke.

Sam Chrimes

But on Friday, January 5, about 5.50am, emergency services responded to reports a car had crashed on Lakes Rd, Woolgoolga, about 25 kilometres north of Coffs Harbour, according to NSW Police.

It emerged the car Mr Chrimes was driving had struck a tree not far from the camp site.

Mr Chrimes died on scene, while a 23-year-old man who had been in the car was treated by NSW Ambulance paramedics and flown to John Hunter Hospital in a critical condition.

Sam and his partner of almost nine years Vanessa were away on their annual camping trip with friends in Woolgoolga where he got down on one knee and proposed on New Years Eve.

Coffs Clarence Police District set up a crime scene which was examined by specialist police.

Road closures were put in place and motorists were warned to avoid the area, which police said was “expected to remain a crime scene for a considerable amount of time”.

Mr Chrimes is described as cheeky, kind hearted, adventurous and loving, with a generous nature.

The GoFundMe fundraiser aimed at supporting 23-year-old Vanessa has raised more than $24,400 in its first day.

“Vanessa is left in a state of disbelief and grief,” Mr Johnston states.

Sam Chrime's mum Michelle.

“She is totally devastated, heartbroken and experiencing a sadness none of us could possibly ever even come close to understanding especially as she is only 23.

“We know he would be so grateful if you can help support his beloved Vanessa through her new journey.”

Tegan Sellick worked with Sam’s mother Michelle on the day of January 5 prior to the accident later that afternoon.

“She was just so happy about the engagement,” Ms Sellick said.

“It broke all of our hearts when we found out. She’s just the nicest lady really - a one of a kind.”

They work together at a holiday park in the Port Stephens area and colleagues have established a GoFundMe page to support Michelle who does not get leave entitlements.

Ms Sellick says it is an unimaginable and painful circumstance that no parent or family should ever have to face.

Investigations were continuing on Monday morning, police confirmed.

Know more about the crash or have relevant dashcam footage? Phone Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.