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« on: December 18, 2010, 01:17:55 PM »
Tony Kirby passed away last night after a hard fight with motor neuron disease.
TK, one time editor of Australasian Dirt Bike and the founder of SideTrack Magazine, had a great following within all spheres of the motorcycle industry. His honesty about various makes and models could get him into hot water or make the bike a huge success. The industry support was universal; from Yamaha's support of the Across Australia Record in 1998 using the new and untested WR400 to Suzuki's support in a number of Australian Safaris including a class win on a DR250.
Despite being a Kiwi, his knowledge of Australia and the australian bush was almost unique. There would not be a half decent fire trail, interesting single track or back road throughout Australia he hasn't travelled, writtern about or photographed. It could also be argued that he brought trail or adventure riding out of the small time and into a thriving sport. He was instrumental in the formation of the Dual Sport Motorcycle Riding Association (DSMRA), who's aims are to keep riding areas open and to bring like minded riders together.
If you travelled, rode or talked with TK you always received a smile and a dose of his notorious but unique laugh.
I now count every moment I spent with him as lesson on how to live life to the max, just as he did.
His passing was in Newstead near Castemaine in country Victoria. Funeral arrangements have not been made as yet but I will let you know when and where.
Head into the sunset TK and God speed.
Peter Barber
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