Sea Lake community raises more than $19k for Billy McClelland’s family after the teen’s tragic death
A Sea Lake boy’s death has devastated a regional community after he died in a motorbike accident just days after Christmas.
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A town in Victoria’s northwest is mourning the tragic death of a teenager just three days after Christmas.
16-year-old Billy McClelland was in a motorcycle accident on December 28 in Nandaly, just outside of Sea Lake, where he tragically died.
The mother of Billy’s best friend, Brianna Ellis said he would be remembered as “the life of every party”.
“He was larger than life, he was adventurous and loyal, he was happy,” she said.
Ms Ellis had known Billy since “the day he was born”.
“He was a huge part of our life, he was like another son,” she said.
“He was a daredevil, and very, very well loved.”
Like many teenagers, Billy shared videos on TikTok, memorialising his love for motorbikes and adventure.
Billy was an active member of the Sea Lake community, playing football and hockey for local teams, and also worked at the local FoodWorks.
Messages of condolences were posted on Facebook by the FoodWorks, saying Billy would be “sorely missed”.
“We are devastated at the tragic loss of Billy McClelland,” the message read.
“We have loved watching you grow and mature and of course your cheeky grin and wild boy ways.”
Speaking on behalf of the family, Ms Ellis said they were “overwhelmed.”
“They are so very grateful and thankful for the support they’ve received,” she said.
“Billy was the baby of the family, this has just destroyed them.”
Ms Ellis said Billy had the “grandest smile”, and that she still felt his presence.
“I feel him here, he’s been giving me the heeby-jeebies,” she laughed.
“He’d love that.”
The community has united around the tight-knit McClelland family in support, donating more than $19,000 in just 48 hours to a GoFundMe for Billy’s family.
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