Tributes flow for fallen rider

FELLOW riders have paid tribute to Chris Lane, identified as the man who died during the St Helens to Strahan dirt bike event last weekend.

“It’s with heavy hearts to announce the tragic loss of Chris ‘Moose’ Lane,” it said in a statement posted on the event’s Facebook page.

“Chris was instrumental in the operations and soul of the St Helens to Strahan ride.”

It’s believed the 30-yearold, pictured, from NorthWest Tasmania, struck a hidden log while riding at Ocean Beach on Sunday afternoon. He was found semiconscious after the alert was raised when he failed to reach a rendezvous point a short time later.

Despite efforts by his fellow riders and paramedics, he died at the scene.

Event founder Andrew Gray said the St Helens to Strahan event community sends condolences to his family and friends.

“Chris was a truly vital part of St Helens to Strahan, he was a genuine gentle giant and will be sorely missed by all who knew him,” Mr Gray said.

Other Facebook posts paid tribute to the contributions he made behind scenes for the St Helens to Strahan event.