Brandon “Chicky” Christopoulos was remembered as a fashion-loving football fanatic with a cheeky smile this morning.
Almost 1000 people attended his funeral this morning to pay their respects to the former Thomas Carr College student.
Brandon died on December 27, along with his mate Jesse Edwards, after their car came off the Newell Highway in Northern New South Wales as they made their way to the Gold Coast.
Local singer Holly Marie performed an emotional tribute to Brandon and Jesse at the funeral, with her original song written for the boys, Only the Best Die Young.
Joel Radovanovic, Brandon’s best mate since the age of six, made a touching tribute to his lost friend.
“When I first met Brandon in 2002, out the front of St James Primary School, I saw a little kid holding his mum’s hand,” he said. “He looked almost the same as me: tanned, chubby and had a cheeky smile. Since that day the friendship formed.
“You were my first friend, and my best friend.”
After sharing many funny stories of Brandon, and reading a short poem, he concluded with a tearful “I love you, mate”.
His uncle Noel spoke of a social and loyal 19-year-old.
“Brandon learnt a lot through his school years, but not all through his text books,” he said. “He was okay academically, but was very strong on social skills. He definitely knew how to make friends, look after his mates, and respect friendships.”
Noel also spoke of Brandon’s keenness for football. He started his career for the Westbourne Warriors, later played for Hoppers Crossing, Glen Orden, and again, Hoppers Crossing. He was selected for the Western Region representative football team twice.
A number of cousins also spoke fondly of their energetic and bubbly cousin.
Ebony said he had the ability to light up a room with just his smile and laugh.
Adam said he was a better person for knowing and being a part of such an exceptional young man.
To hear Holly Marie’s song, visit https://www.facebook.com/holsmarie/videos/1066464703398779/?theater
