Community appeal after death of young father

A community appeal has raised more than $70,000 for the family of 31-year-old Sam Wilson who died just 10 days after the birth of his second child.

The Neerim South man died when his car crashed down an embankment near Aberfeldy on October 3.

Long-time friend Natasha Turner is organising the appeal for his wife Ellie and two daughters, 20-month-old Rosie and two-week-old Grace, which has raised $74,000 in four days.

“(Ellie’s) very overwhelmed but exceptionally grateful,” Natasha said.  “It will allow her to have the time with her daughters that she needs.”

Natasha said Ellie was currently on maternity leave from her role as a teacher and any funds would help the young family navigate life without Sam.

Sam, who grew up in Neerim South, was a machine operator who helped the communities of Bunyip and Mallacoota after bushfires.  His work clearing logs and trees from roads after the Mallacoota bushfire meant he missed much of the newborn moments with first-born Rosie.

The family said Ellie and Sam met in their scouting days as teenagers and started dating at age 18.

Sam loved the outdoors and being on the water, and his scouting activities and commitment saw him progress from Cubs to Rovers with many events and camps in between.

Known for being the first person to lend a helping hand, his “she’ll be right” grin and country style of stubbies and a flannie, Sam is being remembered for his love for Ellie and being an incredible dad.

Natasha said her favourite couple story was when Ellie wanted a snow experience.  Sam brought a ute tray full of snow home from one of his adventures for her to build a snowman.

“Sam was an incredible dad to Rosie, bringing her along for rides on the ride on lawn mower, and even squeezing into her cot to sleep beside her when she needed comforting,” she added.  “His 10 days with Grace will never be forgotten, and he made being a dad to two beautiful girls look so natural.”

For further information about the community appeal, visit https://www.gofundme.com/f/support-for-sams-beautiful-family?utm_campaign=p_lico+share-sheet+spider1c&utm_medium=copy_link&utm_source=customer