A motor mechanic by trade, he would have celebrated his 21st birthday this weekend.

Some of his friends gathered for lunch yesterday to mourn the loss of their friend and celebrate his life.

Peter Byers said Matthew was a great mate and he'd miss him.

"We went to school together and he was a top bloke," he said.

"He was like a brother to me."

Another friend said Matthew was always the life of the party.

"If there was a party on in Mount Isa, he'd be there," she said.

"It's just such a tragedy. He'll certainly be missed in Mount Isa because he's a local and was well-known here."

She said her thoughts were with the family.

In the wake of the death of the 20-year-old, Mount Isa Police Inspector Paul Biggin urged young drivers to be careful on the roads.

"The road rules are there to make the road safer so we'd encourage P-platers to follow them," he said.

"Don't drink and drive, don't speed and make sure you are aware of your surroundings."

He said it was a timely reminder for inexperienced drivers take responsibility for their own safety.

"When you get your licence some people have a feeling of freedom and that they could do anything, but it's important to be in control because you are the only one in charge when you drive."

Insp Biggin said police would not know the exact cause of accident until after the autopsy and toxicology report.