Tragedy after bizarre accident involving mother of four children at waterskiing competition in Zealand

Devastated friends of a talented water skier who died in a bizarre accident say they have been deeply shocked by the death of the beloved mother of four.

Amy Hockley, 49, died on Saturday in a speedboat accident on the Clarence River near Seelands, west of Grafton in the Northern Rivers region of New South Wales.

Ms Hockley had competed in the Ski Racing Australia Queensland State Titles over the weekend; Sunday’s events were cancelled following her death.

Rescue workers, including rescue helicopters, treated the water skier’s serious injuries, but she could not be resuscitated and died at the scene of the accident.

Dozens of people have sent their warmest greetings to the mother of four children.

Mrs Hockley, a mother of four, had competed in championship water skiing competitions

“On Saturday I lost my second mother Amy Hockley, a devoted and passionate woman who proved that age is just a number,” one woman wrote.

“We will miss you. Rest in peace.”

“I was deeply shocked to hear that one of my former students – from 2014 – and someone whose tenacity and zest for life I was in absolute awe of, died in a tragic waterskiing accident,” said a second participant.

“Amy Hockley – I honestly can’t believe you’re gone my friend. I hope you rest in peace knowing that you left an indelible mark on this world and are an example to us all of how to live the cliche by living life to the fullest.”

Another woman said she was “devastated” by the loss of her friend.

“I am devastated. I am devastated for your children and your husband. You were a fighter. I admired your ambition and your strength. A true fighter,” she said.

“You never know what to expect. So in true Amy style, stay true to yourself, tell the truth and live life to the fullest.”

Another said Mrs Hockley’s legacy would live on in her children.

Ms Hockley had competed in the Ski Racing Australia Queensland State Titles over the weekend, with Sunday’s events cancelled due to the tragedy.

“May your legacy live on in the four beautiful children who I know are proud of their mom for who she was and what she stood for!” she wrote.

“Australia has lost a man who is second to none. I will certainly miss our exchanges and will cherish the memories of us following almost identical paths in life over the decades.”

Ms Hockley had competed in championship water skiing and previously in bodybuilding competitions.

Ski Racing Australia said in a statement released on Saturday that the company continually reassesses what is in the best interests of the sport.

“The Ski Racing Australia Board, in consultation with the State Association delegates, would like to advise that due to recent incidents on the water, all event sanctions are lifted until further notice,” the organisation said.

“This decision takes effect immediately and means that the South Australian State Titles and Queensland State Titles racing will not take place on Sunday 9 June.

“With this decision, we want to ensure that we continue to uphold all safety aspects of our sport to protect our members and show respect to the families affected.”

Detectives from the Coffs-Clarence Police District and officers from the NSW Police Marine Area Command are investigating the crash.

A report will be prepared for the coroner.