Tyson Larkham Remembered: Canberra Mourns Motorcycle Crash Victim
A quiet stretch of road in Giralang has become a poignant memorial site following a tragic motorcycle accident that claimed the life of 24-year-old Tyson Larkham early on Sunday morning. The lamppost on Canopus Crescent, opposite the Giralang shops, is now adorned with flowers and surrounded by beer bottles and cans, serving as a somber tribute to the young man who died at the scene.
ACT Policing reported that the crash occurred around 5.45 am on Sunday, with nearby residents hearing a loud noise as the blue Yamaha dirt bike apparently struck the kerb on a bend. Detective Inspector Mark Steel from the ACT road policing unit confirmed that the rider was pronounced deceased at the scene. This incident brings the ACT road toll for 2026 to four, marking the first motorcycle fatality of the year.
Friends and Family Pay Emotional Tributes
Throughout Sunday and Monday, friends gathered at the crash site to honor Tyson Larkham, describing him as a "lovely guy who will be terribly missed." One close friend, who wished to remain anonymous, shared an emotional account of discovering the tragedy. "He was hanging out with some of his mates and was returning home. His phone location stayed in the same place for a while, so I drove down only to find cops all over the place," he said. "He was my best mate and a lovely guy, always caring for the community."
Mr. Larkham, originally from Goulburn, had recently moved to Canberra and was working as a scaffolder. He lived in Giralang, just blocks away from where the accident occurred. Kellie Kirchner, a Goulburn resident whom Mr. Larkham affectionately called "Mother Duck," expressed her devastation. "I've known him since he was six. He was a cheeky kid, loved by everyone he met," she said. "Tyson will always be remembered for his cheeky personality and his love for family and friends. I never heard anyone say a bad word about him. He will be dearly missed."
Investigation into Safety Gear and Speed Factors
ACT Policing investigators have revealed that the rider was not wearing a helmet or other protective equipment at the time of the crash. Police are currently examining whether speed played a role in the accident and will assess if wearing a helmet could have potentially saved Mr. Larkham's life. A detailed report will be submitted to the Coroner following the investigation.
Detective Inspector Steel emphasized the importance of safety gear, stating, "People need to wear helmets when they are riding motorcycles and they are riding push bikes and also when they are on scooters." This tragic event has sparked renewed discussions about road safety and the critical need for protective measures among riders in the community.
The loss of Tyson Larkham has left a profound impact on those who knew him, with tributes pouring in from friends and family who remember him as a caring and cheerful individual. As the investigation continues, the community mourns a young life taken too soon, highlighting the ongoing challenges of road safety in the ACT.
