Rider fatality at 2013 Australasian Safari

Ivan Erceg, a veteran of previous Safaris, suffered an accident on the first stage of today's Leg 5, at Barrabiddy Creek, and despite swift intervention by medical staff, the WA rider was declared dead at the scene.

The DMC Rally team, which Erceg was riding for, also fielded Paul Nappy and Steven Mateljak in this year's event. Erceg was running in the top ten at the end of Leg 3.

Further details around the circumstances of the accident are still to be revealed, pending further investigation.

Australasian Safari event organisers released the following statement earlier this evening:

Second notification from Australasian Safari organisers
At 9.33am today there was an incident involving moto competitor 19, Ivan Erceg, on Stage 1, 50km east of Minilya Roadhouse near Carnarvon in Western Australia.

Despite the immediate intervention of emergency services, he died at the scene as a result of his injuries.

Australasian Safari Event Director Justin Hunt said: "We extend our sincerest sympathies to Ivan's family, team members and friends at this time. Ivan was one of life's huge characters and was loved by the entire Safari family.

"He was a true competitor who loved his motorbikes and the mateship of competition. He will be sorely missed."

A full investigation of the circumstances surrounding Ivan's death has already commenced and organisers are providing full cooperation.

The remainder of today's Leg of the Australasian Safari was cancelled but the event will resume tomorrow.

JUST BIKES joins event organisers in extending our sympathies to Erceg's family, friends, and the DMC Rally team.

Images: Sabine Albers/Australasian Safari