Beloved Club Member Joseph Simpkins Tragically Killed in Car Crash
Published: August 12, 2024 | Updated: August 12, 2024
The rugby union community is in mourning after the tragic loss of beloved player and coach, Joseph “Joe” Simpkins, who died in a car crash on the Tonkin Highway near Perth Airport early Sunday morning.
The 28-year-old was the driver of a vehicle that crashed into a roadside barrier around 1:45 am. Simpkins was a fixture at the Kalamunda Rugby Union Club, where he had started as a junior and worked his way up to the premier grade. He was currently coaching the Under 15s team while rehabilitating a knee injury.
In a heartfelt message, the club expressed the devastating impact of Simpkins’ passing. “We tragically lost our man Joey Simpkins,” the statement read. “He was the loyalist of loyal friends and loved and respected in the Kala and wider rugby community. His loss leaves THE BIGGEST hole in the hearts of many.”
The club highlighted Simpkins’ kindness, infectious laugh, and amazing ability to bring people together, qualities that will be deeply missed. A RugbyWA spokesperson stated that discussions are underway to determine the best way to honor Simpkins’ memory and his service to the sport.
“Speed is the number one preventable cause for these high statistics.”
- Adrian Warner, Road Safety Commissioner
This tragic incident was part of a horrific weekend on Western Australian roads, which saw a total of four lives lost in separate crashes. The state has seen its highest number of fatalities for this time of the year in over a decade, with 114 lives lost. Road Safety Commissioner Adrian Warner emphasized that speed is the number one preventable cause for these high statistics.
The rugby union community is rallying to support each other and the Kalamunda club during this incredibly difficult time as they mourn the loss of their beloved member, Joseph Simpkins.
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