HIGH COUNTRY MOURNS AFTER JACOBUS ‘JOHN’ BAKKUM’S DISAPPEARANCE: THE RESPECTED COMMUNITY LEADER WHO INSPIRED A DESPERATE SEARCH IS NOW BEING REMEMBERED IN AN EMOTIONAL FAREWELL THAT HAS LEFT LOCALS HEARTBROKEN
An elderly man who was missing for two days after failing to return from dinner at a High Country pub with his wife has died.
Jacobus ‘John’ Bakkum, 85, died in a Melbourne hospital on Thursday, two days after he was found trapped in his car which had crashed down an embankment in Mitta Mitta, around 85 kilometres from his home.
Mr Bakkum had been declared missing on Sunday night after he failed to return from the short drive from the hotel to his Harrietville home. He had been having a meal with his wife, Mary, who walked home as part of their regular routine.
It is believed he drove the wrong way along the Great Alpine Road before his vehicle was eventually spotted off the Omeo Highway by a passer-by just after 11am on Tuesday.
Mr Bakkum has been remembered as an integral part of the Harrietville and Alpine communities.
The Bakkums have enjoyed a deep connection with the Harrietville community since moving to the region in the 1970s. (Supplied: Trevor Castricum)
“Since 1971, when he came to Harrietville, (John) has always been involved in the community,” Mr Bakkum’s nephew, Trevor Castricum said.
He held several positions in the town, including serving as the local postmaster and running the town’s general store for many years.
He also helped establish a local building company that has constructed homes, chalets and other public buildings in Harrietville and throughout Victoria’s High Country.
“He’s always been an active member, (or) the president, secretary of everything from the school committee, hall committee, historical committee,” Mr Castricum said.
“He’s been the captain of the fire brigade, anything and everything in town.”
The family has thanked police, paramedics, CFA crews, friends, and family who assisted the search for Mr Bakkum.
They have said he was much loved, near and far, and will be deeply missed.
Jacobus “John” Bakkum was recently recognised by the Alpine Shire for his community work. (Supplied: Bakkum Family)
Investigation ongoing
Victoria Police said a high angle rescue was initiated to recover the 85-year-old on Tuesday morning.
He was then taken to hospital with what at the time were deemed non-life-threatening injuries.
Police said the investigation into the circumstances of the crash is ongoing.
Anyone who witnessed the accident or has any footage is urged to contact Crime Stoppers.
SOURCE: https://www.abc.net.au/news/2026-08-27/jacobus-john-bakkum-pub-remembered-volunteer/107085744
