Tributes Flow For Young Mackay Basketball Talent Lost In Moranbah Crash

The Mackay community is mourning the heartbreaking loss of 18-year-old Andrew Lelliott, who tragically lost his life in a single-vehicle crash near Moranbah on Thursday, August 8.

Andrew was travelling as a passenger in a silver Toyota Hilux when the vehicle left the roadway and collided with a power pole on the Peak Downs Highway. Despite the efforts of emergency services, Andrew, from Balberra, was declared deceased at the scene. The driver, an 18-year-old Beaconsfield man, sustained minor injuries and was taken to Moranbah Hospital.

Andrew’s passing has sent ripples of grief through Mackay and beyond, a loss felt not only by his family and friends but by the region’s sporting community, particularly within Mackay Basketball, where Andrew’s talent, generosity, and character left a lasting mark.

From the Under-12s through to the Under-18s, Andrew proudly represented Mackay on the basketball court. Known for his natural ability and trademark flair for passing, he was the kind of player who made those around him better. Spectators recall the joy of watching him in action — unselfish in play, sharp in vision, and always with a grin that spoke to his love of the game.

Beyond his years as a player, Andrew continued to contribute to the sport he loved by serving as a referee, earning respect for his fairness, professionalism, and easy rapport with players and officials alike.

“Andrew leaves behind a lasting legacy in the Mackay community through his friendship, loyalty, sportsmanship, and generous smile,” Mackay Basketball said in a statement.

A memorial service to honour Andrew’s life will be held at 4:00pm on Friday, August 15, at McDonald’s Mackay Multisport Stadium. The community is invited to attend and celebrate the vibrant, joyful, and kind-hearted young man whose presence enriched so many lives.

In keeping with Andrew’s colourful spirit, his family has requested guests wear bright colours – pinks, blues, whites, and yellows – to reflect the vibrancy he brought to every game, conversation, and moment. Past teammates are encouraged to bring a pair of basketball shoes to be placed at centre court as a powerful tribute to the game and friendships that bound Andrew to the Mackay sporting community.

A GoFundMe has been established to assist Andrew’s mother, Loma, and their family during this unimaginably difficult time. The funds will help cover funeral costs, counselling, and living expenses, easing the burden so the family can focus on grieving and healing.

The loss of a young life with such promise is a tragedy no community ever wishes to face. Yet, in the midst of this sorrow, the Mackay community is rallying, in stadiums, in homes, and in many hearts, to remember Andrew not for the way he was taken, but for the joy, kindness, and passion he gave so freely.

Donations can be made via GoFundMe at: https://gofund.me/9d6aff3b

Mackay Life extends our deepest condolences to the friends and families affected.

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The Mackay community is mourning the loss of 18-year-old basketballer Andrew Lelliott, remembered for his talent, kindness, and vibrant spirit, after he tragically died in a crash near Moranbah. Photo source: Mackay Basketball

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