Bid to honour Harry’s legacy

The legacy of an inspirational teen who died doing what he loved is a step closer to being honoured after Moreton Bay City Council voted to pursue the prospect of renaming a Woorim Beach track in his name.

Harrison ‘Harry’ Payne was 18 when he died in a 4WD crash on Woorim Beach in May 2021.

At a General Meeting on July 16, Council voted unanimously to approve the renaming of Ocean Beach Access Track to ‘Harrison Payne Track’, subject to the outcome of public feedback of the name change.

Mayor Peter Flannery says the proposed renaming is a way to pay tribute to Harry and his passion for the outdoors.

“I’m told Harry was an exceptional young man with a bright personality that would uplift others everywhere he went. He was a role model for our community and this vote ensures Council moves a step closer to honouring his legacy,” Mayor Flannery says.

“Harry’s family have since created the Harrison Payne Initiative - a not-for-profit that aims to create change around beach safety, 4WD safety, and road safety while providing support for families who have experienced similar tragedies.

“I commend the Payne family for turning such a tragedy into a positive force for change through this initiative and hope the community will be strongly supportive of this proposed renaming.”

Under Council’s proposal, a history board would be installed in conjunction with the track signage to explain the connection Harry had with the area.

Councillor Brooke Savige (Div 1) says she strongly supports the track renaming in Harry’s honour.

“Harry lived his life to the fullest and his story reminds us that every day is precious when it comes to family,” she says.

“By council endorsing this proposal, we encourage others in the community to learn more about Harry’s example and the wonderful work being done by his family through the Harrison Payne Initiative. I have no doubt they have already saved lives.”

Mayor Flannery thanked State Member for Pumicestone Ariana Doolan and State Transport and Main Roads Minister Brent Mickelberg for making initial requests to Council to rename the access track.

“I appreciate their correspondence and advocacy on this important matter,” he says.

Ms Doolan says: “When the Payne family first came to me with this request, I was immediately supportive.

“This proposal reflects the family’s wish to honour Harry’s memory and create a lasting tribute. Together, we can make a real difference when it comes to being safe on our beaches.”

Council will now seek public feedback on the action. If non-supportive submissions are received during the 28-day consultation period, the proposal will be brought back to Council for reconsideration.

Public feedback can be made by emailing [email protected] or via written submission to PO Box 159, Caboolture QLD 4510.