The island of Phillip and the largest surf community are mourning after the tragic deaths of two serious Australian surfers with a week apart.
The former Victorian state champion, Mitch Baker and Neil Luke, will be fired by the surf community this week after their deaths.
Baker, 32, died suddenly leaving behind his partner Ashley, the parents Zena and Craig and his brother Callum.
The news of his death has impacted the entire Australian surf community, with the three -time Mick Fanning world champion reacting to the Post Tribute and the professional surfer Jack Freestone who launched a moving tribute.
'One of the types of which I got so nervous drawing a heat when I was younger. A great surfer and such a pleasant guy on land, “he published.
Mitch Baker has been remembered by the surf community as a kind and gentle soul that is proud to give back to its local community.
Neil Luke left his mark as he surfs as a athlete, creating boards for others and as a coach
Professional Surfer Jack Freestone was one of the many to leave tributes for the Baker family after listening to the news of the tragedy
'He left too young. Rip Brother. My heart is with the Baker family.
The president of the Phillip Isand Boardrids Club, Jake Eisen, was a close friend of Baker's and said that the entire community was shattered.
“He was the most talented athlete as a child,” he said.
'Only a talented, gentle and friendly person.
'He always had a talk, he always returned to his community and simply couldn't improve much.
'You couldn't get a better athlete, human, a pleasant person, just a good integral human
'He was one of the most talented and promising young people in Australia
'He was very liked and commanded a lot of respect. We are in shock.
His disconsolate companion Ashley also released a tribute.
Baker's disconsolate companion, Ashley, published a tribute to the young rider after her tragic death
Ashley shared this image of Baker heading to the water, his favorite place
“Family and friends, unique us to send our boy Mitchy,” he published.
“Mitch was such a big and kind soul and we will send it in the way it deserves.”
Luke was another talented surfer in his youth and the longest knee contest in the world was named again as the Neil Luke knee classic.
Not only did the sport impact with his surf, but his long career made boards for others with his business Neil Luke Kneeball.
Luke's family announced that he succumbed to his three -year battle against cancer on February 4.
'He was at home and was surrounded by family and friends. Until the end, it was his hilarious being and he was enjoying sharing stories with his children ', the family launched in a statement.
'He has shown incredible resistance through his three -year battle against cancer. His positive attitude and humor have been incredible to see.
'Fortunately he has enjoyed reasonable health and independence in the last three years. Sunday suddenly deteriorated and received palliative treatment at home until he died.
Luke was a very dear part of the Australian surf community for decades until he succumbed to cancer earlier this month.
Luke was a young talented surfer who was regularly selected in representative equipment
Even towards the end, Luke was often seen enjoying his favorite hobby in the water
'Thank you for all your love and support for Neil/Dad and our family in the last three years. Luke family love.
Eisen said Luke was also a very respected mentor and coach in the surf community.
“He was someone who knew from a very young age who always returned,” he said.
'He always helped with the washers (Juniors), helped them bloom and gave them courage.
'He taught them resilience. And that is something that is quite important when the wave face approaches.
'He was Victorian coach for several years, he was the coach of our team for several years.
“There was not a more respected leader than Neil.”
A commemorative service for Luke will take place in the Jehovah's Kingdom Kingdom Hall in Bentleight East, Victoria on February 14
The Mitch Baker funeral will take place at the Phillip Isand Boardriders Club, 76 Veterans Drive, Newhaven on February 12 from noon
Surfer fellow Michael Penevski shared his tribute to Facebook, publishing: 'Condolences to the whole family'.
'I made one of his boards last year and spoke with Neil several times during that process where we would talk about a lot of things.
'I was impressed how positive and resistant it was during those phone calls.
'Apart from the fact that he told me about his illness, there is no way he had known that he was fighting cancer. Very positive and full of energy. 'Rest in peace Neil'.
Victorian Surfing has paid tribute to the two surfers champions.
“Tragically, last week we lost two of Victoren Surfing,” the organization published.
'Both Mitch Baker and Neil Luke were valued of the state -winning state titles of the Victorian Surf community over the years and contributed to the community in many other ways.
'Luros condolences go out to the Baker and Luke families.
A commemorative service for Neil Luke will take place in the Jehovah's Kingdom Kingdom Hall in Bentleight East, Victoria on February 14.
In addition, surfers and barbecue rowing on Phillip Island are being planned.
The Mitch Baker funeral will take place at the Phillip Island Boardriders Club, 76 Veterans Drive, Newhaven on February 12 from noon.
If you need support, contact Lifeline 13 11 14, or beyond blue at 1300 224 636