Rochester man Paul Hangan’s family call for killer driver Vincent Varapodio to be jailed after horror crash

The family of a Rochester man killed in a horrific Goulburn Valley crash are “ropeable” the driver who ripped their father away is walking free on bail.

Paul Hangan (pictured) was killed by the dangerous driving of Tatura man Vincent Varapodio. Picture: Supplied.

The family of a Rochester man killed in a horrific Goulburn Valley crash are “ropeable” the driver responsible is out free on bail.

Paul Hangan, a 67-year-old father of three and grandfather of 11, was killed by Tatura man Vincent Varapodio’s dangerous driving on September 22, 2023 when he smashed into Mr Hangan’s motorbike at the intersection of Winter and Webbs roads at Nanneella, between Rochester and Kyabram.

Varapario, who has been on bail since he was charged, walked free from court once again this week after pleading guilty to killing Mr Hangan, leaving his daughters “disgusted”.

“Knowing that he killed my dad, that he can walk free on bail makes me ropeable,” Mr Hangan’s daughter Belinda said outside court.

“Knowing he can have dinner with his family … You’re waking up to your kids every day, but we can’t.

“It’s not fair that he’s been able to walk around and live a normal life … how dare you be able to walk around knowing you killed my dad knowing he will never see his grandkids or walk my sisters down the aisle when we get married.”

Everyone knew Mr Hangan in Rochester. He was a “character”, his daughter said, who would always buy three longnecks from the local bottleshop after a motorbike ride.

In 2022, floods ripper through Mr Hangan’s home, and he became a pillar of the community in the local caravan park, always willing to help others

Belinda said her dad “loved his community” and his funeral was “beautiful” with a massive turnout.

A Harley Davidson enthusiast, Mr Hagan was buried in a motorbike-themed casket with his helmet placed on top.

Rochester man Paul Hangan and his dog Scotty. Picture: Supplied.

He was given a “fitting send off” by his nephews and riding buddies who filled the air with roaring Harley engines.

Belinda, who was estranged from her dad at the time of his death, said she lived in anguish that she would never have the chance to make amends so her kids could have a relationship with their grandad.

Now, seven months after killing Mr Hangan and still free on bail, the victim’s family are concerned that Varapario will escape jail for the killing.

Varapodio will face the County Court in July where he will be formally arraigned ahead of sentencing.