The Rockhampton community is coming together to honour the life of Charlie Rose Vincent, a much-loved young woman who died following a tragic road crash in Central Queensland.
Charlie’s fiancé, Jayden Barnham, and her family are preparing a roadside memorial near Mount Jim Crow/Mount Baga, where flowers and a memorial cross will be placed as a permanent tribute to her life and the impact she had on those around her.
Charlie died on 11 July 2026 after a vehicle crash while she was travelling to work at a Coles bakery in Rockhampton. The crash also involved another vehicle, with a man in his 20s receiving minor injuries. Police investigations into the circumstances of the crash are continuing.
Described by her fiancé as a “pure soul”, Charlie was remembered as someone who brought happiness to others through her creativity, personality and interests. She loved music, vehicles and making handmade jewellery, including bracelets that reflected her artistic nature.
To celebrate Charlie’s life, friends and supporters organised a memorial car cruise, inviting community members to participate with cars, motorcycles and other vehicles. The event reflects Charlie and Jayden’s shared passion for vehicles and the automotive community.
Participants were encouraged to wear red and black, colours that held special meaning for Charlie, along with band shirts representing her love of metal music. Organisers said the gathering was designed not only as a farewell but also as a way for people to show support for Charlie’s family.
Charlie’s sister, Katie Paskins, created a fundraising campaign to help with funeral costs and support the family during an extremely difficult time. The community response has been strong, with donations helping ease some of the financial pressure while people continue to share memories of Charlie.
The tragedy has also highlighted the devastating impact road crashes can have on families and communities. Charlie’s loved ones have encouraged people to value every journey and look after each other on the roads.
Roadside memorials are recognised by local councils as important ways for families to remember loved ones lost in road incidents. However, councils also encourage memorials to be installed safely so they do not create hazards or distractions for road users.
For Charlie’s family, the memorial is about ensuring she is remembered for who she was — a daughter, sister, fiancé and friend whose life touched many people.
The Rockhampton community’s response demonstrates the strength of local connections during times of grief. Through the memorial, tribute drive and shared memories, friends and family hope Charlie’s kindness and passion will continue to be remembered.
