Aussie dad dies after German backpacker's tragic mistake - leaving his young son without a father
Jack Beaton, 26, was on his way home on August 10 when a German tourist, 19, driving a Suzuki campervan allegedly crossed to the wrong side of the road and struck the oncoming Holden Commodore in Simpson, in Victoria's western district.
Mr Beaton, who was in the front passenger seat of the Holden, died at the scene, just 20km from his home in Cobden.
He is survived by his partner, Toni, and their two-year-old son, Hudson.
Mr Beaton's death has rocked the local community, which has rallied around his grieving loved ones ahead of the funeral this Thursday.
He has been remembered by loved ones as an amazing father and partner.
Mr Beaton, who turned 26 a fortnight earlier, worked for a local fencing company and was the sole provider for his young family.
Relatives have set up a fundraiser to help with Hudson's upbringing and allow Toni to return to work soon on hold.
The young father is survived by his partner Toni and their son Hudson (pictured together)
'Jack loved life and lived it to the full but most of all he loved his family,' the fundraiser states.
'Toni has had to cease work while they come to terms with their loss, and Hudson adjusts to Daddy never coming home again.
'Funds raised will help Toni raise Hudson without the love and support of his dad and her soulmate.'
The fundraiser has already raised almost $20,000 within days.
Mr Beaton's death sparked an outpouring of tributes led by his workplace and local sporting clubs.
'We have no words to describe how devastated we are,' South West Rural Fencing posted online.
'Jack wasn't just someone we worked with, he was a best mate. Always up for a laugh, always up for some banter and someone you could count on no matter what.
'We will miss your contagious laugh and cheeky grin, and how you were always so eager to catch up for a longneck.'
Jack worked for a local fencing company and was the sole provider for his young family
Both drivers and a passenger in the Suzuki camper van were hospitalised after the crash.
A German national, 19, was later charged with dangerous driving causing death.
The court heard that Reto Bernhard had been travelling across Australia on a holiday visa after finishing high school.
He will remain in custody until his next court appearance in January.
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