Tributes, fundraising for Taree man Tim Hillier killed in Wingham car accident

Students donned black armbands and flags were flown at half mast after the loss of a much-loved teacher, father, surf lifesaver and all-round ‘great man’ who was killed in a head-on smash.

Tim Hillier with his wife Kristen and two young boys.

Students donned black armbands and flags were flown at half mast after the loss of much-loved Taree teacher, father, surf lifesaver and all-round “great man” Tim Hillier who was killed in a head-on smash last week.

He leaves behind two young boys and wife Kristen, a well-known speech pathologist working in the disability sector.

Their lives were shattered last Wednesday morning when the sedan Mr Hillier was driving collided head-on with a cement truck about 9am.

Mr Hillier died at the scene while the truck driver was later freed and taken to hospital.

Tim Hillier was killed when his car crashed head-on with a cement truck on Wednesday, July 31 about 9am. He was an active member of the Old Bar SLSC. Picture: Supplied.

NSW Police have confirmed that Mr Hillier’s car was travelling towards Wingham and the truck towards Taree, with investigations continuing into how the accident near the Lincoln Bricks Works occurred.

Mr Hillier was a teacher at MidCoast Christian College and himself a dedicated Christian.

“It has been hard seeing tears roll down the faces of students and staff, yet we hold to the assurance of eternal life in Christ Jesus,” a school spokesperson posted on the college Facebook page.

“We know and believe in our hearts that Tim, as a faithful servant of the Lord Jesus, is now in heaven.”

Parents and colleagues, both past and present, have painted a picture of a truly remarkable teacher and presence at the college.

Taree Rescue Squad responding to the accident on Wednesday, July 31 on the road between Taree and Wingham.

The cement truck rolled for some distance into a paddock and came to rest crushing the driver who was later freed on Wednesday, July 31 on the road between Taree and Wingham.

Alison Young described him as a wonderful teacher and great man to work alongside while Leonie Harrison said her daughter loved being in his class and that he was very understanding and fun.

He was also an active and well-respected member of the Old Bar Surf Life Saving Club, joining in 2020 and completing his Bronze Medallion the following year.

Fellow members have described him as a reliable, fun-loving guy with a heart of gold who was the perfect mentor for junior members.

In just 48 hours of being created, a fundraising campaign has raised over $50,000 to support the young family.

It was created by Kristen’s work colleagues at Dundaloo Allied Health who describe Mr Hillier as a treasured part of the community, known for his faith, service, and love.