A talented 17-year-old surfer, Taika Cleland-Pottie, has died after being struck by a car on the Cunningham Highway in Clumber, Queensland. The incident occurred at approximately 6:20 p.m. on Friday when a white Toyota Yaris collided with the teenager.
Cleland-Pottie was a member of the Kirra Surfriders club, an organization that has served as a starting point for surfing legends. The club released a statement on Instagram remembering him as a dedicated, fast-improving surfer who was always willing to contribute and was a pleasure to be around. They extended their condolences to his family and friends, urging younger members to support one another.
Cleland-Pottie's mother, Lina Marsh, announced his death on Facebook, describing him as her "beautiful golden boy." She noted the outpouring of love and support the family is receiving as they cope with their loss and prepare to send him to his final resting place on the Gold Coast.
His aunt, Isla Amin, initiated a GoFundMe campaign to assist in bringing his wider family members to Australia for his farewell. The fundraising effort has garnered over $33,000. Amin expressed the family's immeasurable pain but their commitment to supporting each other.
The driver of the Toyota Yaris, a 48-year-old woman, was not injured in the incident. Police investigations into the circumstances of the collision are ongoing.