Taj and Zane, two great mates tragically taken from Orbost

Fundraiser Update: Thank You All

Dear friends, family, and kind-hearted supporters,

On behalf of the fundraiser coordinators — Julie, Indi, and Vicki — we want to sincerely thank each and every one of you who donated, shared, and supported this GoFundMe for Taj and Zane.

We are deeply moved to let you know that the target amount has been reached. Because of your incredible generosity, the funds will now be distributed to both families to help cover the funeral and memorial costs, and to support them during this heartbreaking time.

Your kindness has meant the world — not just in dollars, but in love, care, and community spirit. Every contribution, no matter the size, helped make this possible.

From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for standing with us.

With love and deep appreciation,

Julie, Indi & Vicki

(Coordinators of the GoFundMe for Taj and Zane)

My name is Julie. I am raising funds for Taj and Zane’s families who tragically lost their loved boys on Tuesday June 10th. I need to acknowledge Vicki Dixon who had taken steps to set a fund raiser too. Through mixed communication, neither of us realised the other was doing it. We have joined together here and Vicki is a co creator.

As a 15-year-old boy with a cheeky grin, Taj Patten-Mclaren was happiest lounging at home on the couch with his dog, watching TV, or hanging out with his mates.

He was “a lover, not a fighter”, a sweet kid, and his mother Bianca Mclaren’s whole “world”.

We are hoping to raise funds to help them financially deal with this tragic reality. Funeral costs; indefinite loss of income, and the bills that just do not go away, will be a huge burden for these working class families. Please donate as much or as little as you can, it all adds up to take a load off these families shoulders while they deal with their grief.

I don’t personally know Zane, but will post some information on him when I can chat to family or his friends.

Here is some information that Vicki had already prepared….

In loving memory of Taj Patten McClaren and Zane Oldis

On 10/6/2025 our community was shaken by the tragic loss of 2 beautiful young souls - Taj (15) and Zane (18) - who sadly passed away in a motor vehicle accident in Orbost, Victoria.

Zane was a hard working young fisherman with a bright future ahead, and Taj was a spirited student full of life and promise.

Their sudden passing has left and unimaginable void in the hearts of family, friends and all that knew them.

We are raising funds to help cover funeral and memorial expenses for both boys. This will ease the financial burden on the families during such a devastating time and give Taj and Zane their heartfelt farewell that they deserve.

Any contribution - big or small - is deeply appreciated. If you are unable to donate, please consider sharing this page to help is reach other who may be able to assist.

Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your love, support, and donations. Vicky will no doubt add further comments as we all work together to help these members of our little community

************************