I was going to write about this earlier this week, but I wanted to give it the full attention it deserved. Unfortunately I didn't get a chance to sit down and collate my thoughts and condolences in the time period I would have hoped.

Shawn Mackay was a recent acquisition by the Brumbies and was developing steadily, looking to cement a regular spot on the team. Following their loss to the Sharks, he and several other players stayed out. Mackay was hit by a car later that night.

He was taken to hospital and looked to be recovering well. As I understand it, his teammates had left the hospital a few days later after being told he was going to be ok. Unfortunately, something went wrong.

Mackay is no longer going to take his place on the field. He passed away on Wednesday.

We in New Zealand have recently lost a rising star in Sonny Fai. The Australian community is experiencing a similar tragedy. I'd like to stand up and offer my condolences to his family, team and Australian rugby fans. I hope the Brumbies can win this weekend, in dedication to him. If you'd like to offer your condolences to Mackay, the guys at G&GR have a thread going.