Philip Lieschke, 26, was killed about 1.40am when a Pacific National goods train struck him on the tracks at a Culcairn railway crossing.

The shearer had moved to Culcairn from Henty.

Brad Wettern, who coached Mr Lieschke in the under-17s at Henty Football Club, said he was well-liked.

“He always enjoyed himself,” he said.

“We got on well as I wasn’t that much older than him.”

Mr Wettern said Mr Lieschke, who played in defence, was part of a successful team at the club.

The Swampies won premierships in 2003 and 2004 and were runners-up in 2005.

“He did his job and tried hard,” he said.

“He would always turn up. He would never let you down.”

Mr Wettern said the Henty community was in shock as news of Mr Lieschke’s death spread in the town yesterday.

“When there’s an accident where someone has died when they shouldn’t, it’s got to shock the town because it’s so small,” he said.

Albury police Inspector David Cottee said it was not known whether Mr Lieschke’s death was the result of an accident or suicide.

It has been referred to the coroner.

Lifeline: 13 11 14

SANE Australia: 1800 187 263 (Mon-Fri 9am to 5pm)

Suicide Helpline Victoria: 1300 651 251

NSW Rural Mental Health Support Line: 1800 201 123

Gateway Community Health: 1800 657 573