Cycling: Cyclists, friends pay tribute

Bunbury's cycling fraternity is mourning the loss of a local legend after 43-year-old Darren Strudwick was killed on Coalfields Highway on Thursday.

It was the sixth fatality on the notorious road this year.

Mr Strudwick, of Australind, was killed about 4.30pm on November 4 after being clipped by a Toyota Hilux as he rode his bike along the highway near Edith Valley farm.

The crash is being investigated by the Bunbury and Collie police stations as well as the major crash squad.

Councillor Karen Steele said she was devastated by the death of her lifelong friend, someone she had known since the age of four.

Cr Steele said the region and cycling community had lost a "good friend" and she was saddened by the growing numberof crosses along Coalfields Highway that memorialised those killed on the road.

"I’m gutted, absolutely devastated, I want something to be done about this road," she told the Bunbury Herald.

Mr Strudwick, who had worked at Worsley for about 15 years, was a cycling enthusiast since the age of seven and a member of the South West Cycle Club.

He won the Australian Masters in Victoria in 2007 and was an A grade champion, entering many competitive events over the years.

Cycle club secretary Liz McNaughton said despite the tragic loss of one of the club’s most passionate and well-liked members, the 90km Byford Cyclosportif went ahead yesterday in his honour.

A ride was also organised on Saturday to remember Mr Strudwick.

"Darren was a much-respected and well-liked member of the club and had been nominated for the committee this year," Ms McNaughton said.

"He was a great mentor and an amazing guy."

Club vice-presidentJohn Hanczakowski said Mr Strudwick’s death was a tragic loss.

"Darren was a safe rider, he was a skilled rider and he knew that road well, it is such a tragedy.

"He will be missed," Mr Hanczakowski said.

Mr Strudwick leaves behind his wife Frances and two children from a previous marriage.