Friends and family mourn John Durie after fatal altercation
A tight-knit community in the state’s northwest is reeling after the shock death of one of their own in a Friday night altercation. Friends and family have paid tribute to the 56-year-old grandfather.
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A small town in northwestern Victoria was reeling on Saturday after the shock death of a “champion fella” following a day of golf.
John Durie, 56, died at the Wycheproof Golf Club on Friday after a possible assault about 9.30pm, according to police.
The grandfather had been at the club with friends following a golf tournament. He was well known in the small Mallee town, including for his involvement in cricket.
His son Ashley remembered his father as a hardworking farmer and a selfless man.
A 26-year-old man who was known to Mr Durie was held for questioning for most of the day on Saturday.
He was released by police about 4pm pending further inquiries, with homicide detectives continuing their investigation last night.
The Sunday Herald Sun was told Mr Durie collapsed while having drinks with friends.
Some in the town suggested a medical episode or playful scuffle occurred rather than a violent assault as first suspected.
“They were having a wrestle like they normally do and he starts shaking like he’s having a heart attack,” said a man who wished to remain anonymous.
A Victoria Police spokeswoman said: “Emergency services responded and attempted to revive the man but he has died at the scene.”
“The exact circumstances surrounding the incident are yet to be determined.”
The victim’s large family gathered at his property in the town yesterday.
The Sunday Herald Sun was told Mr Durie was a loved member of the community and would be greatly missed by all who knew him.
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A friend described him as a “champion fella” and said his death would be a “massive loss to the community”.
Friends took to social media to expressed their sadness.
Raeleen Collins described Mr Durie as a “lovely man”.
“Tragic for all concerned,” Margaret Allan wrote.
Mr Durie was heavily involved in the Wycheproof community. The Wycheproof Narraport Cricket Club listed him as president on its website.
It’s understood police are not looking for anyone else over the incident.