A 22-year-old Townsville truckie who lost his life on the weekend is being remembered as a top bloke and loving father, with a GoFund Me page set up to help cover funeral costs and support his young family.
Evan Walsh, or ‘Walshy’ as he was known, was travelling on the Flinders Highway near Charters Towers in a triple road train at around 11.45pm on Sunday night, when the unthinkable happened.
The unloaded livestock road train left the road and rolled, before catching fire. Tragically, Walsh died at the scene.
Brett Hawkins, a friend of Walsh, has now set up a GoFundMe page in his honour.
“He was a top bloke, mate, brother, son, grandson, father, and a bloody good man who would’ve down absolutely anything for you or take the shirt off his back for you,” wrote Hawkins.
“This sudden tragic accident and loss has become such an shock to us all! Such a young soul, truck driver and family man taken too early.
“I cannot think, describe or feel the words of the pain Walshy’s family and love ones are going through in this horrific sad moment,” Hawkins said, adding that he hoped the funds raised through the GoFundMe page would help through any future hardship.
Many of those who knew Walsh have also taken to social media to pay tribute.
“R.I.P Evan Walsh absolutely gutted!! You were one of a kind,” wrote one Facebook user.
Another posted, “RIP Evan Walsh. Had some great times growing up in the bush… will always cherish you.”
While another wrote, “RIP Buddy, Evan Walsh you will be missed by a lot of people, and I’m glad I had the privilege of calling you a mate!!! Keep those wheels turning up there.”
Hawkins had set a $5000 fundraising goal, and as of this morning, it sits at over $9300.
To access the GoFundMe page and to donate, please click here.