The tight-knit NSW horse-riding community is mourning the loss of a teenager in Tamworth after a fatal three-vehicle crash.
Fourteen-year-old Jimmy Webster was a passenger in a horse truck that was involved in a collision with a semi-trailer and a tractor on the Kamilaroi Highway in Wee Waa, located in New South Wales’ New England region, around 3 pm on Sunday.
A man who was not involved in the crash provided first aid to Jimmy, as did paramedics, but he could not be saved and died at the scene.
The Manilla Campdraft Club, where Jimmy and his family were active members, took to social media to share their devastation at the news.
“Jimmy was a passionate young horseman, a kind soul and would do anything to help a mate,” the Manilla Campdraft Club wrote.
The campdraft club is organising a weekend-long raffle, with all proceeds to go to Jimmy’s family.
Jimmy was also a keen rugby player and the Pirates Rugby Union Club has organised an online fundraiser to support the family.
“Jimmy has been an integral part of the rugby community since he started playing at the age of eight,” the club shared. “He was a clever, humorous, and devoted teammate who lifted spirits both on and off the rugby field.”
“His family’s support has been crucial to grassroots rugby, significantly contributing to the survival of the Tamworth Tri Colours during its most challenging periods when the club nearly dissolved.”
Authorities are seeking to speak with the man who initially provided help at the accident site, as they believe he might have valuable information for the crash investigation.
The drivers involved—a 66-year-old man for the tractor and a 33-year-old man for the semi-trailer—were unharmed but taken to the hospital for routine testing.
