FRIENDS and family of a 23-year-old man killed in a freak jet ski accident are distraught after his death at a flooded mine site.

Kyle Staats, from the Gold Coast, died after a collision between two jet skis at around 2pm on Tuesday at a quarry in Western Australia's remote northwest.

Friends tried desperately to keep him alive after he suffered a serious leg injury, performing CPR in a car on the way to hospital before meeting paramedics on the road, where he was declared dead, Perth Now reported.

The driver of the other jet ski, a man in his 40s, was not injured, said WA Police.

Mr Staats' loved-ones paid tribute to his "beautiful soul" and "crazy ideas", describing him as funny and spirited and willing to try anything.

"We were all blessed to have Kyle in our lives," his family said in a statement. "His light shone brighter and his spirit was infectious, he loved life and lived his to the fullest. There was nothing he couldn't do nor wouldn't attempt.

"We love you so much, rest easy sweet boy.

"The world is a darker place without this beautiful soul."

Friend Ell Hogerdyk wrote on Facebook: "I am crying at the thought of never seeing you again, you were such a lovely guy and I loved hearing all your crazy ideas.


"The many hours tattooing you and getting to know you I will be forever greatful [sic] for. We were lucky to know you!"

Nicole Te Aroha Rupapera called him the "funniest human being I have ever known" and the "coolest little dude".