Fourteen-year-old Jimmy Webster, a promising young horseman and beloved member of Australia’s horse-riding and rugby communities, tragically died in a vehicle collision on August 17 near Wee Waa, NSW. Jimmy was a passenger in a horse truck that crashed with a semi-trailer and a tractor on the Kamilaroi Highway. Despite first aid efforts by a bystander and paramedics, he succumbed to his injuries at the scene. The horse being transported was also euthanised due to its injuries. The drivers of the three vehicles were unharmed and underwent mandatory testing.

A 38-year-old man driving the horse truck has been charged with dangerous and negligent driving occasioning death and granted conditional bail to appear in court in December. Jimmy’s death deeply affected his local community, with tributes highlighting his kindness, generosity, and passion for campdrafting and rugby. Clubs and friends remembered him as a bright, caring young soul whose loss has left a significant void in both local and wider sporting circles.