The family of Peter "Tiki" Mason, a 71-year-old motorcyclist who died after his bike struck a pothole on a Victorian highway, has spoken publicly for the first time, describing their grief as immeasurable and urging that his death not be used for political point-scoring.

Mason lost control of his motorcycle after hitting a pothole on the Western Highway near Trawalla Road at Trawalla, in Victoria's central west, at around 12.50pm on Sunday. The crash proved fatal, leaving family, friends and the wider motorcycle community in shock.

Family Breaks Silence Over Peter Mason's Death

In a statement released on Wednesday, Mason's family said the loss had been both sudden and devastating, and that words alone could not capture their heartbreak.

"Peter was so much more than the circumstances of his death," the family said. "He was a much-loved member of our family and a friend to many. His loss has left an enormous hole in our lives, and we are struggling to come to terms with a life taken far too soon."

While Mason's death has ignited widespread anger over the state of Victoria's roads, his family was explicit in asking that his memory not be exploited for political purposes.

"We do not want Peter's death used to promote political agendas, and we ask that no one speak on behalf of our family or claim to represent our views," they said.

At the same time, the family expressed genuine hope that something constructive could emerge from the tragedy. "If, through the appropriate processes, changes are identified that could prevent another family from experiencing this devastation, we sincerely hope something positive can come from Peter's death," they said, adding that such matters should be handled by the relevant authorities.

The family also thanked the many people who had reached out with condolences and shared memories of Mason, saying the outpouring of love had offered some comfort "during this unimaginable time."

Tributes Flow for a 'True Gentleman'

Mason was president of the Eureka Social Riders and a well-known face in Victoria's motorcycle community. Tributes have flooded social media since news of his death broke.

The Mutiny Mob Social Club remembered Mason as a close friend and beloved riding companion. "Only days ago, we were sharing a great weekend, plenty of laughs and good times together. Now we are struggling to comprehend that he is gone," the club wrote, extending condolences to Mason's family and everyone at the Eureka Club.

Melbourne-based motorcycle content creators That Harley Couple described Mason as "a true gentleman who cared deeply about those around him," recalling a brief but memorable interview with him earlier this year at the Redback Rally. "We were gutted to hear of the loss of Tiki," they said.

Victorian Roads Under Scrutiny

Mason's death has come at a particularly sensitive moment for the state government. Just days before the crash, Victoria's Auditor-General released a report finding that approximately half of the state's road network was in poor condition, with more than 23,000 kilometres of roads assessed as overall "deteriorating" and a growing backlog of potholes yet to be repaired.

Victorian Premier Ben Carroll has faced sustained questioning about the government's responsibility in the wake of Mason's death. Carroll acknowledged the government bore a "strong responsibility" to keep Victoria's roads safe, but declined to directly accept responsibility for the fatality, noting that a police investigation was underway.

Questions about road safety and infrastructure maintenance are likely to intensify as the investigation continues. Fatal crashes on Australian roads remain a serious concern — dangerous conditions have been linked to tragedies on major highways elsewhere in the country as well.

A formal investigation into the circumstances of Mason's death is ongoing.