Swim coach and lifeguard Ray Nicol died at the age of 57, leaving the Fraser Coast, Queensland community in grief.
Ray worked for about 30 years in aquatic roles, he coached at both the Hervey Bay and Maryborough aquatic centers.
In addition to coaching, he was also a lifeguard, and was deeply involved in his local community.
Ray was also active with the Maryborough/Howard Obedience Club, working with dog owners to build trust and communication.
Fraser Coast Community and Nicol Family Mourn the Loss of Beloved Coach Ray Nicol!
Ray Nicol passed away in a tragic alleged hit‑and‑run incident in the early morning of 14 November 2025.
According to the reports, he was walking along the Esplanade at Point Vernon, at the corner of Banksia Street, when a car struck him.
Ray was not death at the scene, Emergency responders rushed him to Hervey Bay Hospital, where they tried to resuscitate him, but sadly he could not survive the injuries.
Following the police investigation, the driver was later identified as 20‑year-old Riley John Groves, who was reported to run away after accident.
Later, he was arrested at a home in Urraween around 5 AM, according to police.
Groves has been charged with dangerous operation of a vehicle causing death, failure to offer assistance, and other serious offences.
As per authority, Groves did not help Nicol after the collision.
Following his untimely death, family and community members have been grieving and lighting candles in his memory.
Not just the family, Maryborough Swimming Club Inc has also grieved the loss and shared a heartfelt message in a Facebook post.
Many have expressed their grief in the post, reflecting Ray’s impact on them and their children. One person in the comments writes:
This is terribly sad news! May he rest in peace. My children will always remember Ray through the tremendous foundations he built with them through swimming. Such an incredible and friendly person.
In the same post another one writes;
We are absolutely heartbroken. Ray has been a huge part of our lives this last year and it’s going to be a really tough and harsh reality that it’s no longer the case. He was a fantastic coach and person and we are going to miss him immensely.
Despite his passing, he is now remembered by many in the Fraser Coast for his teaching and the kindness he showed through his coaching.
As of now, he is survived by his partner, Fiona Walker, with whom he spent over three decades (32 years) of his life.
Following his passing, his partner’s sister, Amanda Walker, has also organized a GoFundMe campaign to help the Nicol family with funeral services and related expenses.
Our heartfelt condolences go out to Ray Nicol’s family, friends, and all well-wishers.
Rest in Peace, Coach!
