Crash victim 'a loveable character'

Thomas Boatwright, known as Tom, will be forever remembered as a man who would do anything for anyone; a gentleman who built a nation-wide network of friends as a result. 

The 34-year-old passed away in Canberra Hospital on Tuesday after he sustained critical injuries in a single-vehicle accident on Three Ways Road near Adjungbilly the previous day.

Tom, from Coolac and formerly of Wagga, leaves behind his wife Natalie and sons Lachlan and James.

His brother Sam Boatwright recalled growing up in San Isidore, along with countless trips to picnic races and B&S balls, as he spoke of his "best mate".

The pair were born in Alice Springs and moved to Wagga in 1984. 

"He was a fantastic big brother, especially through the teenage years," Sam said. 

"He was a loveable bloke ... just one of those characters you came across and couldn't help but like." 

Sam said anyone Tom came across he influenced.

"We've had a lot of support from far and wide, he touched a lot of people across Australia," he said. 

"He had an unbelievable network of people he managed to keep in contact with." 

Close friend David Graham said Tom's death was a tragic loss for Coolac and the wider Gundagai Shire. 

Mr Graham described him as an outstanding young man with exceptional family and community values.

"Tom's life revolved around his family; he treasured the many hours he spent with Lachlan and James," David said. 

During those times he taught them many rural skills and passed on his love for horses and dogs.

Away from the animals, Tom could often be found in the canteen of St Patrick's Primary School in Gundagai. 

"Tom was a person who really enjoyed people's company, had a fantastic sense of humour and a strong personality," he said.

"He was always willing to help his neighbours ... he just had such a great love of people."

Tom's funeral service will be held at St Patrick's Catholic Church in Gundagai tomorrow at 10am, followed by a private cremation.