Tributes flow for Qld mum Amy Hockley after shock northern NSW water skiing death
Tributes are flowing for a Queensland mum-of-four killed in a freak water skiing accident during a major competition in northern NSW.
NSW
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Tributes are flowing for a Queensland mum-of-four killed in a freak water skiing accident at the Ski Racing Australia State Titles on Saturday.
Amy Hockley, 49, died after a high-speed boat crash on the Clarence River at Seelands near Grafton.
The Ski Racing Australia Qld State Titles were held in front of the Seelands BIG4 Big River Holiday Park & Ski Lodge on June 8 and 9, with organisers pulling the Sunday event due to the tragedy.
It is not clear whether Ms Hockley died during the event or while practising.
NSW Ambulance and specialist air ambulance paramedics rushed to the area about 2.40pm on Saturday and found Ms Hockley with extensive injuries.
Despite best efforts, she could not be revived and died at the scene.
Ski Racing Australia issued a statement on Saturday and said “the board needs to continually assess what is the best interest of the sport, both long and short term”.
“The board of Ski Racing Australia in consultation with state association delegates wish to advise that all event sanctions are withdrawn due to recent on water incidents until further notice,” the statement read.
“This decision is effective immediately and means that racing will not proceed on Sunday 9th June at the South Australian State Titles and the Queensland State Titles.
“This decision is made to ensure that we continue to elevate all the safety aspects of our sport to protect our members, and in respect for those families involved.”
BIG 4 Seelands management told NewsLocal: “We extend our condolences to the family and friends of Ms Hockley during this difficult time and are offering support to our team members.”
In the wake of the shock incident, tributes have flooded social media for the well-known water skier and personal trainer, who in recent years relocated from the Gold Coast to Rosevale in the Scenic Rim.
Ms Hockley competed at championship level in water skiing, entering competitions Australia-wide.
James Marth wrote on Facebook: “On Saturday I lost my 2nd mum Amy Hockley, a dedicated and passionate woman that proved age is just a number. We are going to miss you. Rest in peace.”
Friend Nate Harmon added: “I was gut-punched by the sad news that one of my former students – from back in 2014 – and someone that I was in absolute awe of for her tenacity and lust for life, was taken in a tragic waterskiing accident.”
“I’m so grateful that after not having connected for a couple of years, I only spoke with her a week or so ago. She discussed her plans for the future and invited our family out to her property,” she wrote.
“Scrolling through my old posts, I even found a picture I took of her assessment, in which I praised the hard work of my students. She was a perfect example of hard work worth praising.
“Amy Hockley – I honestly can’t believe that you’re gone my friend. I hope you’re in peace knowing that you have left an indelible mark on this world and an example to all of us of how we can embrace the cliche, by living life to the fullest.”
Another friend, Nat Lowndes, said she was “amazed” at Ms Hockley’s “strength and mothering”.
“A sister from another mister, we laughed. Plans were made for many future visits. You and I were certainly carved from the same stone,” she said.
“You spoke of hanging up your ski boots and taking up you and Rubys interest in horses.
“I’m shattered. I’m shattered for your kids and husband. You were a champion. I admired your ambition and strength. A serious warrior.
“You never know what’s around the corner. So in pure ‘Amy style’, stay true to yourself, speak the truth and live life to the fullest.”
Kirri Wood added: “Absolutely gutted to learn of the sudden passing of a fierce truth and freedom warrior Amy Hockley in a skiing accident.”
“May your legacy live on through the 4 (sic) beautiful offspring who I know are proud of their Mumma for who she was and stood for!” she said.
“Australia has lost one of a kind and I’m surely going to miss our banter and will hold very fond memories knowing that we have walked an almost identical life path through the decades! My heart is broken for your beautiful family.”
Coffs-Clarence Police District detectives and officers from the NSW Police Marine Area Command have been investigating the circumstances of the crash and a report is due to be given to the Coroner.
Email sam.stolz@news.com.au
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