A former Ballarat cyclist is fighting for his life after he was seriously injured in a freak accident on the Gold Coast.
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Ballarat born and bred triathlete Jaysen Searle, 45, remains in an induced coma after he struck a bush turkey when riding in a Queensland forest. The Ironman champion rode with the Ballarat Sebastopol Cycling Club for many years before relocating to Queensland just over a decade ago.
Speaking to The Courier, his wife Paula Searle was overwhelmed by the support from the Ballarat community – with many friends travelling to be by Mrs Searle and children Jamie and Amber’s side while Mr Searle continued his fight.
Mr Searle’s parents still live in Sebastopol and he regularly visits Ballarat.
Close family friend Phillip Weightman said Mr Searle was in a stable but serious condition. His skull sustained massive impact and a titanium mesh plate was inserted to build his skull.
He also suffered a broken shoulder, minor fractures to his neck and ribs, multiple spinal fractures and pelvic injuries.
“It’s easier to pick which rib he hasn’t broken,” Mr Weightman said.
“He’s in an induced coma, he’s being ventilated.
“He is being monitored 24-hours-a-day, but by all indications he is doing as well as doctors would expect.”
“He has a hell of a long way to go before he is back to the Jaysen that we know.”
The “super fit” father of two is an accomplished triathlete and mountain bike rider. Among riding circles he is known as a safe and cautious rider.
“He’s cycled all his life. He is a very skilled cyclist, very safe this was just a very unlucky accident,” Mr Weightman said.
“His family is by his side. He has a group close friends that has rallied behind to support him at this time.”
The Brisbane Times reported Mr Searle was riding downhill along Tomewin Mountain Road at Currumbin Valley with a friend when he hit the bird about 6.20am.
"I was sitting down having a coffee, Jaysen is usually home by 7am, and I got a bang on the door from a mate that was riding with him," Mrs Searle said.
Mr Weightman said Mr Searle was a fantastic guy who garnered great respect from other riders.
“He is the guy everyone relies on to motivate them for training.” Donate to the gofundme online.