The family of a motorcyclist killed when his bike struck a pothole on a Victorian highway has broken their silence following his death.
Peter “Tiki” Mason, 71, hit the pothole and lost control of his motorcycle while riding on the Western Hwy near Trawalla Rd at Trawalla, in Victoria’s central west, about 12.50pm on Sunday.
He died at the scene.
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Mason’s family said “there are no words to express the heartbreak” they were experiencing following “the sudden and devastating loss”.
“Peter was so much more than the circumstances of his death,” the family said in a statement on Wednesday.
“He was a much-loved member of our family and a friend to many.
“His loss has left an enormous hole in our lives, and we are struggling to come to terms with a life taken far too soon.”
Mason has been remembered as a true gentleman. Credit: Facebook Mason’s death has sparked anger over the condition of Victoria’s roads, but his family stressed they did not want his death used to promote political agendas.
“If, through the appropriate processes, changes are identified that could prevent another family from experiencing this devastation, we sincerely hope something positive can come from Peter’s death,” they said.
“However, these matters should be dealt with by the appropriate authorities.
“We do not want Peter’s death used to promote political agendas, and we ask that no one speak on behalf of our family or claim to represent our views.”
The family thanked those who had reached out with condolences, support and memories of the beloved motorcyclist.
“Knowing how many people loved and cared for him brings us some comfort during this unimaginable time,” the family said.
Mason reportedly struck the pothole and lost control of his motorcycle. Credit: 7NEWS Tributes to Mason have flooded social media. He was president of the Eureka Social Riders.
“It is with heavy hearts and complete shock that we share the tragic passing of our mate Tiki following a motorcycle accident over the weekend,” the Mutiny Mob Social Club wrote.
“Only days ago, we were sharing a great weekend, plenty of laughs and good times together. Now we are struggling to comprehend that he is gone.
“On behalf of every member of the Mutiny Mob Social Club, we extend our deepest and most heartfelt condolences to Tiki’s family, loved ones, friends and everyone at the Eureka Club.”
Melbourne-based motorcycle content creators That Harley Couple said they were “gutted to hear of the loss of Tiki”.
“We interviewed him this year at the Redback Rally and although only a short conversation he left a lasting impression,” they said.
“That impression was one of a true gentleman who cared deeply about those around him.
“He will no doubt be missed by many.
“Condolences to his family, friends and brothers and sisters in the club and greater biker community.”
About half of Victoria’s road network is in poor condition, according to the state’s Auditor-General. Credit: 7NEWS Mason’s death comes just days after the Victorian Auditor-General found half of the state’s road network was in poor condition, as a backlog of potholes waiting to be repaired continues to grow.
Examining more than 23,000km of roads, it characterised their overall condition as “deteriorating”.
Victorian Premier Ben Carroll has faced repeated questions over the government’s level responsibility following Mason’s death.
Carroll said the government had a “strong responsibility” to make sure Victoria’s roads were safe but stopped short of directly accepting responsibility for Mason’s death.
“There is a police investigation underway,” Carroll said.
“The Transport Accident Commission, the police put out a statement saying there is a thorough investigation. It’s not for me to pre-empt any of that work.”
Carroll said his thoughts were with Mason’s family, friends and motorcycle club, describing him as a “ripping bloke” who had supported young girls participating in motorcycle riding.
“He should have come home,” Carroll said.