BMX ‘legend’ farewelled after police find missing Logan River kayaker

Charlie Gumley, the 26-year-old Beenleigh man who died in a kayaking accident in the Logan River last week, has been remembered as a talented BMX rider, proud family man and a “genuine, kind-hearted soul”.

Charlie Gumley was "an animal" on a BMX bike, loved ones say.

Charlie Gumley knew how to leave a lasting impression.

When he wasn‘t stunning spectators with his mind-blowing BMX tricks, he was dropping everything to put others before himself.

The 26-year-old Beenleigh man was tragically found dead last week, days after he‘d left home for a kayaking trip on the Logan River.

Police are investigating.

Charlie Gumley died in a kayaking accident in the Logan River.

“(He was) a legend who would never let a single person down,” close friend Taylor King told The Courier-Mail.
“(He has) has made such a special place in everyone’s heart.”

Mr Gumley has been described as a genuine, kind-hearted, sweet, and gentle soul.

At the Beenleigh Skatepark his moves wowed onlookers.

In BMX circles he was known as the originator of “the Twix” – a jaw-dropping handlebar spin, into a tailwhip.

Videos of Mr Gumley’s stunts have been shared across social media, with clips of him featuring on YouTube over the last 10 years.

His bravado on a bike has seen him mourned heavily among the nation‘s BMX community.

“He was a very talented BMX rider, he was very well known at the Beenleigh Skatepark, he was an absolute animal on a bike,” Ms King said.

Mr Gumley’s friend Jay McKenna spoke of his generosity and selflessness.

“(He) was a genuine guy – someone who would be there for you no matter what,” Mr McKenna said.

“He selflessly gave up his time to those he cared about and pushed them to better themselves, not only that he was a magnificent BMX bike rider, well-known through the sport and loved by many big names.

“Some would call him an animal on the bike and being one of the few to land his signature move the Twix air.”

But there was more to Mr Gumley than BMX, Mr McKenna said.

He was also a devoted family man.

“He is also not only a true mate but also a loving caring father, partner and stepfather,” Mr McKenna said.

“He loved his little family more than anything and he proudly spoke about them all.

“In summary, he’s a top bloke – an amazing, caring, loving champion.”

A group of Mr Gumley’s friends posted their own tribute to the BMX rider, touting him for his innovation on a bike.

“(He’s) a progressive BMX rider, recognised internationally for his contribution to BMX and as being the first person to land a tailwhip and barspin at the same time, which he named the “Twix”,” a statement from the group read.

“He was able to progress as a rider and a person through the support of his parents who not only backed him and his riding but also accepted and offered guidance to those around him.”

“His constant good vibes and attitude meant everyone around him was always having a good time.”

Originally published as BMX ‘legend’ farewelled after police find missing Logan River kayaker