Heartfelt tribute to a ‘loveable larrikin’
A TEENAGE boy killed in a jet skiing accident in Townsville has been remembered as a “loveable larrikin” as his family struggles to come to terms with the tragedy.
Luke Powell, 15, was killed when he was thrown from an inflatable tube being towed by a jet ski in the Ross River near Loam Island on Sunday.
The teenager landed on rocks along the riverbank, suffering severe head injuries, and could not be revived.
In a statement released yesterday, the family said they appreciated the outpouring of support from friends and the community in the wake of the tragedy.
“Luke was a loveable larrikin and a beautiful young man,” they said. “Our family is devastated by his loss and are still trying to come to terms with the tragedy.”
His family said Luke was a popular young man with a particular passion for water sports.
He was a student at TecNQ and was excited about the opportunities awaiting him.
“He loved riding his motorbike, tubing, knee boarding and anything on the water,” they said.
As his family and friends grieved, police investigations into the accident were continuing with the Townsville Water Police and the Townsville Forensic Crash Unit working together.
Inspector Mark Jackson said that he understood Luke’s mother, Shelly, was driving the jet ski at the time of the incident.
“Tragically a 15-year-old lad was being towed on a tube behind a jet ski and as the jet ski attempted to execute a turn in the river, I understand he was flipped over and was thrown into the riverbank,” Insp Jackson said.
“As I understand it his mother was driving the jet ski so our thoughts and wishes are with her at the moment. It’s a reminder to all of us that any sort of water-based activities are inherently dangerous.”