Bridie Lee was a beloved member of the Canberra Bilbys Triathlon Club. Photo: Supplied.
People living on both sides of Australia are continuing to mourn the tragic loss of a young woman who was killed in a fatal crash while cycling with her friends in Canberra.
Bridie Lee, 32, was originally from Perth, Western Australia, before moving to the ACT.
She and four other cyclists had been riding on Gungahlin Drive, near the intersection with Kosciuszko Avenue, after 6 am on 27 August when police said a car “ploughed” into them.
Ms Lee died at the scene from her injuries while two men were taken to hospital.
One, a 34-year-old, was later released, but a 39-year-old remained in a critical condition over the weekend.
The two other cyclists were uninjured.
All of the cyclists had been riding as part of the Canberra Bilbys Triathlon Club’s regular cycling group that morning.
This week, a spokesperson for the club’s committee told Region that Ms Lee was “someone who brought people together”.
She started her journey in triathlon through the Bilbys’ novice triathlon program and quickly became a beloved member of the club.
Bridie Lee developed a passion for triathlon after she moved to Canberra. Photo: Supplied.
“Bridie came to every session and her enthusiasm for triathlon was infectious,” the committee spokesperson said.
“Bridie encouraged all members and, earlier this year, she was awarded the Club Person of the Year Award in recognition of the impact she had on the community and the positivity that she brought to everything she did.”
She joined the Bilbys’ committee in 2025 and often spoke about the friends she’d made and the experiences she’d had through triathlon.
“Bridie recently completed a Triathlon Australia coaching course to continue giving back to the community she loved,” the committee spokesperson said.
“Bridie was on a regular training ride. Everyone deserves to get home safely. No family should have to receive news like this.”
ACT Gridiron also posted a tribute to Ms Lee on its social media page this week, saying their members were saddened to learn of her passing.
“Her kindness and contribution to our community will not be forgotten,” the American football group said.
“Many will remember her for her loyalty, inclusiveness, encouragement, and the way she put 100 per cent into everything she did.
“Our thoughts are with Bridie’s family and friends during this difficult time.”
ACT Gridiron will hold a minute’s silence at its game this coming weekend to honour her.
On Wednesday (2 September), an ACT Policing spokesperson said the 39-year-old male cyclist remained in hospital in a critical condition.
The spokesperson also said the investigation was continuing and the 40-year-old female driver of the car was assisting police with their inquiries.
No charges have been laid at this stage.
Region has attempted to contact Ms Lee’s family.