The tight-knit Gippsland greyhound racing fraternity is mourning the loss of a ‘favourite son’ – Lindsay Franklin, 57.

A popular long-time ‘catcher’ in the region, Franklin was hit by a car on McNairn Road around 9.30pm while walking home from a Traralgon meeting last Wednesday night.

He suffered life-threatening injuries and was taken to hospital in a critical condition but later died.

The driver of the car involved in the fatal collision stopped at the scene and assisted police with their enquiries.

A genial character, Franklin was loved by all and sundry – particularly at Traralgon and Warragul where he performed his catching duties.

His aunty – 2004 Ken Carr medallist and Traralgon GRC life member, Margaret Thomas – paid her nephew an emotional tribute.

In his formative years, Margaret was instrumental in enrolling Lindsay into a special school, which gave him the chance to develop friendships.

“He loved the greyhounds, he really did. And he made a presence in the greyhound world.” – Margaret Thomas

“Lindsay was caring and kind-hearted… He was a friendly person; he wouldn’t hurt a fly.” – Lachlan Fasoli

“Lindsay was a very caring person and would help anyone,” she said. “He was quite a character in his own way – a loner but a very, very funny man. And he loved gardening and music.

“He loved the greyhounds, he really did. And he made a presence in the greyhound world.”

Young Heyfield trainer Lachlan Fasoli, 29, befriended Franklin around 10 years ago and they became close mates.

“Lindsay was a caring and kind-hearted person who was willing to help anyone in need,” he said. “He was a friendly person; he wouldn’t hurt a fly.

“We became acquainted through greyhound racing. He would often come along with dad and I when we raced at Healesville and would catch our dogs.”

It’s believed the Traralgon GRC intends putting on a memorial race in Franklin’s honour and will also hold a wake once funeral details are announced.