The young man at the heart of the long-running 'bike boy' incident involving former Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews has voluntarily entered a treatment centre to address ongoing psychological and health struggles stemming from the collision.
A Collision and Its Lasting Impact
Ryan Meuleman was just 15 years old when the accident occurred on January 7, 2013, in the seaside town of Blairgowrie. He was cycling when he collided with a Ford Territory SUV carrying then-Opposition Leader Daniel Andrews, his wife Catherine—who was driving—and their three children. The Andrews family has consistently denied any wrongdoing in relation to the crash.
The collision left Mr Meuleman with life-threatening injuries, requiring an airlift to hospital and resulting in the loss of part of his spleen. Now aged 27, he checked into a Victorian-based treatment facility last month for a 30-day programme, a move his father says demonstrates his fortitude in facing his demons.
Ongoing Legal Battle and Personal Struggles
This personal step towards recovery coincides with an active defamation lawsuit Mr Meuleman has launched against Daniel and Catherine Andrews in the Federal Court. He alleges that a media statement issued by the couple in September 2024, which referred to a review of the collision being prompted by 'appalling conspiracy theories', led to online trolls labelling him a 'grifter'.
The Andrews have denied the defamation claims and rejected a proposal to pay a $50,000 compensation sum and issue an apology. A deadline for the couple to lodge their formal defence passed on December 19, though it is unclear why it was missed or if this will delay proceedings. A case management hearing is listed for February 11.
A Family's Support and a Quest for Investigation
Ryan Meuleman's father, Peter, told the Herald Sun his son was 'a kid with troubles' who has never fully recovered from the 2013 incident. 'I'm relieved and proud of him for having the fortitude to face up to his demons,' he said, adding that this time of year is always difficult for his son.
According to Federal Court documents, Mr Meuleman continues to suffer physical pain from his injuries as well as significant symptoms of depression, anxiety, and trauma. Separately from the defamation case, his family has stated that an investigation team is preparing to present new evidence to the Chief Commissioner of Victoria Police, advocating for a full criminal investigation into the accident.
A representative for the Meuleman family confirmed Ryan is comfortable with people knowing he is getting support but said they would not comment publicly on the defamation proceedings out of respect for the Federal Court.
