A “Rad Human” Gone Too Soon

An outpouring of grief has flowed throughout social media following the death of an adventurous spirit who lived life to its fullest.

17-year-old William Baker lost his life earlier this week following a serious traffic crash involving a van and motorbike at Blacks Beach last Saturday night.

William suffered critical injuries at the scene and was assisted by an off-duty nurse who conducted CPR ahead of the emergency response. Tragically William’s injuries were severe and he passed away.

Skateboarding brand Red Lotus Company shared heartfelt words about William and is leading a push to rename the Blacks Beach Skatepark in William’s honour.

“Our young friend William Baker lost his life in a motorcycle accident,” the company posted on social media.

“Will was a beautiful young soul that was taken to early and will be missed by many.

“In his honour we are pushing to re-name the Blacks Beach Skate Park the "William Baker Memorial Park" along with a plaque of his dates and a custom mural painted on the vert wall, which Will was the first person to ever drop in on.

“We will be putting together a Fundraising day (date to be announced) in Will’s memory to help raise funds for his family to cover funeral costs and the mural.

“It has been a pleasure skateboarding with you Will and watching you grow into a rad young human being.”

The Eimeo Surf Lifesaving Club posted a touching tribute on social media to their club member.

“Eimeo SLSC are deeply saddened and shocked to learn of the sudden unexpected passing of young club member Will Baker,” the post read.

“Will was a long-time member of the Eimeo SLSC along with his family, starting out as a young nipper and progressing through to a Bronze Medallion holder and volunteer patrol member.

“He was a regular at Eimeo Beach for well over 10 years, whether he was patrolling and helping around the surf club, fishing, diving or just hanging out with mates.

“Our sincerest condolences go to Kim, Andrew and Brianna Baker, and the whole Eimeo SLSC family are here to support you.

“A surfcraft vigil will be held this Sunday, June 5th at 11.30am to remember the energetic young fella who graced us with his presence and was taken way too soon.”

You can donate towards William’s memorial online at gofundme.com/f/william-baker-fundraiser

‍William Baker died last Saturday when his Kawasaki dirt bike collided with a Toyota Hiace van at the intersection of Blacks Beach and Hancock roads.

Eimeo SLSC posted a moving tribute to William who had been a long-time member

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