Gold Coast kayaker tragedy: Tributes flow for Chris Dicker who drowned on Easter Sunday at Tallebudgera Creek

The heartbroken mother of a Gold Coast kayaker who tragically died during a family Easter holiday says she’s overwhelmed with responses from people whose lives he touched.

THE heartbroken mother of a Gold Coaster who died on a family Easter holiday says she’s overwhelmed with responses from people whose lives he’s touched.

The body of Chris Dicker, 28 was found in the middle of Tallebudgera Creek on the Gold Coast this morning after he went missing about 7am yesterday when out kayaking.

From an early age, Mr Dicker had experienced epileptic seizures, which made him unable to play sport.

Because of this, he took up coaching and dedicated his life to teaching kids how to play basketball.

Chris Dicker, 28, was found dead at Tallebudgera Creek after kayaking while on an Easter camping holiday with family.

Chris Dicker.

His devastated mother Debbie Williamson told the Gold Coast Bulletin she had been receiving constant messages from the public, paying tribute to her son.

“I’m getting so many comments. It’s just so amazing to hear how much my son has achieved,” she said.

“Some of the fathers have sent me photos and clippings of him of what he has done for them.

“Chris pushed himself into helping their kids achieve whatever they wanted to achieve.”

Chris Dicker, 28 (right) with a young Clippers team.

Mr Dicker has been a part of the Burleigh Bears rugby league club for the past two years and has been coaching dozens of young basketballers for the Coombabah Clippers and Seahawks.

The North Gold Coast Seahawks president Ben McGrath released a statement today: “It’s on a sad note that I am writing to our Seahawks community to inform you of the passing of Chris Dicker after what appears a kayaking mishap at Tallebudgera,” he said.

“Chris has been a long time coach for the Coombabah Clippers and prior to that the Gold Coast Wildcats, helping many kids enjoy their basketball journey.

Chris Dicker with the Seahawks.

CHRIS DICKER REPORTED MISSING AFTER KAYAKING AT TALLEBUDGERA CREEK

“He was a dedicated volunteer who injected himself wherever was needed for both his clubs and for Seahawks in both our Junior and Senior Seahawks programs.

“His passion for basketball and our Association could certainly not be faulted.

“We pass on our deepest sympathies and condolences to his family and friends and will offer support where we can to those affected.”

Chris Dicker had a passion for basketball and was a much valued contributor to the sport on the Gold Coast, coaching teams of youngsters.

The Coombabah Clippers Basketball Club also made a statement remembering Mr Dicker.

“It is with the deepest sadness that we inform you of the passing of an amazing coach and good friend,” the post reads.

“Chris touched so many lives and invested in more people than we can begin to know.

“Clippers honours you, Chris.

“We would not be the club we are today without you. You will be sorely missed by all of us.”

Mr Dicker was last seen entering the creek at 7am yesterday morning.

He and his family were on holidays at the campsite next to the creek.

Mr Dicker’s kayak was later found on the western side of Tallebudgera Creek bridge with a pair of scuffs in it, but no paddle.

Police were unsure if the kayak was washed up, or if it had been dragged to its current position.

His body was found in the creek this morning and he was pronounced dead at the scene.