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Man killed in charity cycle ride tragedy

Rotary clubs are in mourning after a much-loved member was tragically killed while on a charity cycle ride near Geelong in Melbourne's south-west.

Jared Dunscombe was riding along Wharf Road, at Corio, when he fell from his bike and was hit by a passing truck towing a trailer.

The 31-year-old had once before beaten the odds, surviving after being struck by a car, aged seven.

Doctors predicted a bleak outlook, saying he would never never walk or talk again.

But silencing his critics, Jared not only walked but ran in the Queen's Baton Relay in the lead up to the 2006 Commonwealth Games, aged 24.

He continued to defy medical odds and live life to the full, completing the Kokoda Trek, the Portsea Swim Classic and the San Remo Channel swim in 2002.

In later years, Jared became involved in charity work and often took on challenges to raise funds for worthy causes.

In a cruel twist of fate, Jared had been riding with 50 other Rotary members in their annual fundraising event when he was hit.

Some fellow cyclists sadly witnessed the accident that claimed Jared's life and are said to be devastated.

Rotary district governor Tony Spring told Seven News reporter Emily Angwin: "They're unbelievably devastated. They're really, really upset and they've taken this really hard. Taken it to heart."

A man that battled until the very end, Jared will be remembered as a brave fighter who loved life.

Cycle tragedy: Jared Dunscombe (far left) was hit and killed by a truck during a Rotary Club charity cycle ride. Photo: Supplied
Cycle tragedy: Jared Dunscombe (far left) was hit and killed by a truck during a Rotary Club charity cycle ride. Photo: Supplied

Police say the freak accident happened on a particularly narrow stretch of road and no one is to blame.

Victoria Police Senior Sergeant Tony Francis said: "At this stage it would appear that the bike rider has fallen over and collided with the truck."

Jared's family has described him as a wonderful son and brother who cared for everybody, and say no one would have a bad word to say about him.

"I'm just devastated for the family and also the rest of the bike riders, and of course the truck driver that was involved," Tony added.