Lockie’s legacy lives on

It was a touching tribute for Harvey’s beloved son, brother and mate — gone but not forgotten.

As the burnt-orange sun set, in the stillness of the sky, Lockie Hernaman was remembered.

Lockie’s friends and family gathered around the Harvey Bulls Football Club oval on Thursday night, in memory of Lockie and a strong sign of the legacy he left behind.

He died one year ago after collapsing during a football training session.

The 20-year-old was raced to the Harvey Hospital but could not be saved.

The coroner’s report could not determine a cause of death.

Lockie’s little sister Kailee and his mum Mel let go of balloons at three minutes past six to remember their “angel in heaven”.

A balloon arch was stretched across the place where he died — now known as Lockie’s wing.

The number four, his old guernsey number, was etched into the field by one of his friends in a sign of respect and remembrance.

The resilience shown by his family, friends and the club could only be described as remarkable.

Lockie was a talented Harvey Bulls Footballer and also a promising basketballer, a kid who could “play just about any sport” he turned his hand to.

He wore a smile from ear to ear and was a popular and respected member of the community.

His friends described him as “kind”, “loving” and “loyal”.

Lockie’s death sent shock waves through the community — he had crossed paths with so many.

Last year, Lockie had just returned from a holiday in Canada and a family trip in Melbourne with his mum and sister.

He had finished his plumbing apprenticeship and was eagerly awaiting his certificate in the mail which was something he never got to see.

His mum said she missed him dearly and said he was the “perfect big brother” to his younger sister Kailee.

She described her son as “caring, courageous and strong”.

She recalled how he would always help his teammates in junior sport who lacked confidence, go to the ends of the earth to protect his younger sister and encourage everyone to become the best version of themselves.

From the turnout on the ground, the tattoos dedicated to his name and the heartbreaking tributes flooding social media, it is clear that Lockie’s legacy will live on.