Lost larrikin mourned
Grief flows for ‘great bloke’ killed in hit-run
HIT-AND-RUN victim Timothy Watkins is remembered as a larrikin with an infectious grin who always had time for beer and football.
The 22-year-old was killed on Sunday morning while riding a bike from a friend’s home, leaving a tight-knit community in Northern NSW mourning. A driver found Tim’s body about 1am on Sunday at Wilsons Creek Rd, Wilsons Creek and alerted emergency services.
Hundreds of messages have poured in since from family and friends of the Mullumbimby football player who had been involved in the local sporting community since he was a kid.
Mullumbimby Giants chairman Dan Molenaar said Tim was a powerhouse and always put in his best effort.
“He was a tiny little bloke but one of those tough little buggers who plays above his weight range,” he said.
“He played hooker this year, in A-grade, and always gave his all. He was one of those great blokes, can’t say anything bad about him.”
Tim’s brothers Travis and Sean posted heartfelt messages about their cheeky sibling.
Travis wrote: “I’m going to miss you so much brother, it’s too early for you to leave us. I can’t imagine my life without you. I love you so much and I just want you to come home.”
Sean wrote: “It was a pleasure to grow up with you and have the chance to play by your side. I love you brother and I’ll see you on the other side.”
Tim was supposed to play for the Mullumbimby Giants on Sunday afternoon but instead his teammates came together to celebrate his life under tragic circumstances.
He was part of both the Giants rugby league club and Mullumbimby Moonshiners Rugby Club.
More than $8000 has been raised for the Watkins family through GoFundMe.
Police are continuing to search for the motorist responsible for Tim’s death.
Anyone with footage or information should call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.