Southern Downs town in shock after local character Col Chancellor dies in traffic crash

A memorial will be held in the coming days to celebrate the life of a local larrikin who died doing what he loved, cruising the rural roads on his beloved Harley Davidson.

Col Chancellor, 72, died as a result of injuries suffered in a traffic crash at Leyburn, about 3.pm, February 29, 2024.

The Southern Downs community of Leyburn is in mourning after local legend Col Chancellor died from injuries suffered in a two-vehicle crash.

According to the initial police report, the 72-year-old was travelling north on Toowoomba Karara Road when he collided with a 4WD that was turning right into Stonehenge Road, about 3pm on February 29.

Mr Chancellor suffered critical injuries and died at the scene, while the driver of the second vehicle was uninjured.

News of his passing sent shockwaves through the tight-knit community.

Tricia Chant, who runs the town annual sprint days, said Mr Chancellor was a constant presence at most community events.

“He was a great guy, very laid back and easy going,” she said.

“It was a big shock.”

“Col never wanted a funeral but we will hold a memorial soon, it will be a celebration of his life and a chance for everyone to get together.”

Mr Chancellor was known for his passion for vintage cars and bikes.

“He had a really nice hot-rod, a Commodore ute and the bike, a Harley Davidson,” Ms Chant said.

“He loved cruising on his bike or in the cars.

“He went out the way he wanted to go, I couldn’t imagine him in a nursing home. They would have kicked him out.”

The incident remains under investigation by the Forensic Crash Unit.

Anyone with information about it, including dashcam footage, is urged to contact Policelink on 131 444.