Ipswich rider Brayden Erbacher tragically passed away Sunday, March 5th as a result of an accident on the opening lap of the first Pro Lites race of the 2023 ProMX Championship at Wonthaggi, Vic.
The twenty-year-old was mid pack on the opening lap of the first Pro Lites class race, around 11:00 am, when he crashed on the last jump of a jump rhythm section and was hit by multiple following riders. He was rushed to the on track RaceSafe medical unit where the medical team and ambulance crews worked to save his life, but could not be revived.
His mother Corinne, issued a statement to Nine News on behalf of the family which paid a loving tribute.
“We are shattered beyond words,” she told Nine News.
“On behalf of the family, we would like to thank the whole motocross community for their support today while our whole world fell apart.
“Brayden touched the lives of so many, and we were so proud to call him our son.
“He was a larrikin, and was at his happiest on his bike, playing his guitar and just hanging out with his family and his mates.”
“His passing has left a void that can never be filled.”
Police and WorkSafe Victoria are investigating the incident and Motorcycling Australia called off the event.
Many of his colleagues and friends have started paying tribute online as the motocross community is reminded of the ever-present danger they face.
The Pro motocross championship’s last fatal accident was May 2nd, 2010 when Andrew McFarlane passed away after crashing at Broadford.