Tributes continue to flow for 19-year-old Riley O’Neal

Those who knew and loved Riley O’Neal have shared heartbreaking messages and memories of a life lost too soon following a tragic beach 4WD incident.

Riley O'Neal has been remembered as a cheeky, sweet-natured boy.

Tributes continue to flow for Gladstone teen Riley O’Neal, as a community mourns a life that was ‘taken too soon’.

The 19-year-old passed away after a tragic accident on Saturday in a single vehicle accident on a remote beach.

He had only celebrated his birthday just a couple of weeks earlier, on July 6, and was a graduate of Chanel College Gladstone.

Gladstone Brothers Rugby League football club junior coach, Matt McConnell, spent five years teaching him and said people were drawn to his cheeky smile and kind nature.

“I’ve known him on and off the field, and he was a great kid,” Mr McConnell said.

Riley was a well-respected member of the Gladstone Brothers Rugby League football club. File photo from 2019.

“He was a credit to his family, and I know that’s a cliche, but he really was. He was always polite and well-mannered, and he always had a cheeky smile on his face when we were having a joke.

“He had a cheeky nature, but he was funny and respectful.

You would find Riley O'Neal out fishing most weekends with mates.

“He was the sort of kid that people around him looked up to, including my own 14-year-old sons who idolised him.

“He had a great personality, and he really had time for anyone.”

“He was loved, and well-respected. He’ll be missed by all who knew him.

Riley O'Neal loved fishing from a young age.

“No one is going through this alone, and we just need to continue to be there for each other.

“He’ll always have a place at Brothers, and that will never change.”

Gladstone Brothers Rugby League Football Club, president David Ahern, on behalf of the senior and junior clubs, said they were feeling the weight of losing a member so young.

“We extend our deepest sympathies for the tragic loss of Riley, and we are heartbroken by this untimely departure of a young soul,” he said.

“In these moments of immense grief, we stand by your side, offering support and comfort.

“May cherished memories of Riley‘s vibrant spirit be a source of solace amid sorrow.

“Lean on each other and know that you are not alone. In this darkness, love and remembrance of Riley will guide you towards healing.

“Riley will forever remain in our hearts. With heartfelt condolences and prayers for strength during this challenging time.”

Riley worked as an apprentice at Boyne Smelters Limited

Riley was working as a first year mechanical apprentice at the Boyne Smelter.

Boyne Smelters General Manager Lesley Bryce said that Riley’s passing had deeply affected the BSL community.

“It is with great sadness that we acknowledge the passing of our BSL teammate Riley,” Ms Bryce said.

“Riley joined our team earlier this year as a first year mechanical apprentice who demonstrated a commitment to learn and grow.

“We are deeply saddened by this loss and my thoughts go out to Riley’s loved ones, colleagues and friends.”

Originally published as Tributes continue to flow for 19-year-old Riley O’Neal