Memorial paddle-out for young surfer

Update

GEORGE NEWS - Friends and fellow surfers gathered in Victoria Bay and Onrus, Hermanus, to celebrate the life of local surfer Michael Roberts (20), with two separate memorial paddle-outs on Saturday 7 August.

Michael died in a car accident on the Kaaiman's Pass between George and Wilderness, near the turn-off to Far Hills Hotel, on his way home from work on Saturday 31 July.

The BMW sedan he was driving collided with the back of a heavy Scania truck at approximately 17:45.

"The seriously injured driver of the BMW was transported to hospital by ambulance where he unfortunately succumbed to his injuries shortly after arrival," said Southern Cape police spokesperson, Sgt Chris Spies on Saturday.

ALSO READ: Kaaimans accident claims young life

Michael moved from Hermanus to Wilderness earlier this year and worked at a surf shop in the area. He was much loved and if the paddle-outs bear any testimony, he was certainly a firm favourite among his friends and colleagues.

Fellow surfers paddling out for Michael in Victoria Bay.

What many do not know is that he also assisted with a rescue during a near-drowning incident at Victoria Bay the morning before his accident.

"We will miss him terribly and have a million things to say about him, but for now we would just like to thank everyone who was involved during and after the accident," said Michael's father, Craig Roberts. "The George and Wilderness community have been incredible. A special thank-you to Pip and Remano Wolar. We will visit in the next few weeks to personally thank everyone."

Local surfers paddled out with flowers in memory of their friend, Michael Roberts.

Shaun Bonorchis from Hermanus says he and his family were privileged to have been a part of Michael's life for the past 11 years.

"We saw him evolve from a young, extremely active boy into a young man. One thing that set him apart was his unique ability to excel in any area of sport that came his way. From soccer to tennis, cycling, hockey, fishing and finally bodyboarding and then to surfing where it became apparent that the sea was his happy place.

"He certainly had a mind of his own and lived in the moment. Thank you Michael for being part of our lives."

Many paid their respects to Roberts while his surfboard full of messages stood upright on the beach on Saturday 7 August. Photos: Deidré Cloete