A paraglider who died in a freak accident has been identified as father as tributes pour in for the ‘outright legend’.
Shane Ruhl, 37, crashed his paraglider into a paddock near the intersection of Kennys Lane and Rossmoyne Road in Colac, southern Victoria, at 9am on Sunday.
The cause of the crash has not yet been revealed but photos from the scene show Mr Ruhl’s paraglider was severely damaged.
Emergency services performed CPR on Mr Ruhl but he was pronounced dead at the scene.
The devoted dad had worked as a truck driver for Layanda Transport since January, 2022.
Shane Ruhl (pictured) died in a paragliding incident in southern Victoria on Sunday morning
The cause of the crash has not yet been revealed but photos from the scene show Mr Ruhl’s paraglider (pictured) was severely damaged
Mr Ruhl’s bosses shared an emotional tribute to him late Sunday night.
‘It is with a heavy heart that we write this post,’ they said.
‘We sadly lost one of our own in a aircraft accident this morning.
‘Shane Ruhl was a family man, a friend, the best employee a company could ask for, an outright legend of his own creation.
‘Our thoughts are with his family and friends as we all mourn a much loved father, son and mate.’
Dozens of Mr Ruhl’s friends and coworkers shared their condolences.
Mr Ruhl (pictured centre) has been remembered as a ‘ripper bloke’, devoted dad and hardworking truck driver
Paramedics attempted to perform CPR on Mr Ruhl but has was declared dead at the scene (pictured)
‘One of a kind. His passing will be a huge loss to all who knew him,’ one person wrote.
‘Such devastating news. He was such a great guy to work with. He’ll definitely be missed in the industry. Heartfelt condolences to his family,’ another said.
‘Absolute tragedy, ripper bloke and cracking operator,’ another wrote.
‘Rest in peace mate. Had the pleasure of meeting you a few times last year. He was a great bloke,’ a fourth said.
The Sports Aviation Federation of – ‘s body for hang gliding, paragliding and microlight aircraft – is investigating the crash.
The n Transportation Safety Bureau does not typically investigate fatal incidents involving sport aviation equipment.
Mr Ruhl (pictured right, in front of his truck) worked for as a truck driver for Layanda Transport since January, 2022
The Sports Aviation Federation of – ‘s body for hang gliding, paragliding and microlight aircraft – is investigating the crash (pictured)
However, it is expected the ATSB would provide assistance with investigations.
Victoria Police will prepare a report for the coroner.
Anyone with information about or vision of the incident has been urged to contact Crime Stoppers.
