Melbourne-based singer-songwriter Talae Rodden, known by his stage name 'Ricewine,' has been identified as the victim of a fatal accident near the Mount Buller ski resort in Victoria, Australia. Rodden, 27, died on August 10 when a large tree branch fell onto the vehicle he was traveling in along Mount Buller Road.
Paramedics attempted advanced life support at the scene, but Rodden was pronounced dead before he could be transported to a hospital. His mother, Sally, who was driving the car, sustained serious injuries in the incident. Conditions at the time were reported as wintry, with fog present in the area.
Rodden was an emerging musician who began creating music as a teenager. He released multiple albums and singles, with his song "Summer Spent" garnering over one million views on YouTube. He also performed at events such as SXSW Sydney in 2025.
His death has led to numerous tributes from the Mount Buller, Mansfield, and Merrijig communities, where the Rodden family is well-known. He was remembered as a "talented and much-loved young man, cherished by his family, friends and so many people who had the privilege of knowing him." The University Ski Club, of which Rodden was a member and an avid skier, has organized a GoFundMe campaign to support his family.
Steve Rabie, Mayor of Mansfield Shire Council, commented on the impact of Rodden's death on the close-knit community, stating that the event's effects extend far beyond those directly involved. Victoria Police are continuing their investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident.