Kamenieli Varo, a father of five, has tragically been confirmed missing after an incident at the Murrumbidgee River near Yanco in New South Wales. The 32-year-old man was reported missing to NSW Police on Sunday, November 3, around 5:15 PM, prompting a response from emergency services at Middle Beach, Yanco.
According to the police statement, officers from the Murrumbidgee Police District, alongside NSW Ambulance, State Emergency Service (SES), and the Volunteer Rescue Association, initiated an extensive search for Mr. Varo. Unfortunately, their efforts were hampered by poor visibility and dangerous river conditions, leading to the search being called off at about 8 PM. Rescue operations resumed the following day, but Mr. Varo’s body has yet to be located.
Preliminary reports suggest that Mr. Varo may have been swept under by the river’s strong current despite attempts by his friends to save him. Mr. Varo emigrated to Australia in 2022 under the National Employment Centre (NEC) Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) scheme, with plans for a four-year contract set to conclude next year.
His wife, Mere Dawai, expressed her heartbreak over the situation, revealing that their last conversation occurred the day of the incident. “He told us that he was going for a picnic with friends and when they return, he would call us again. We didn’t know it was the last time that we would hear his voice,” she shared with deep sorrow. Mr. Varo had been eagerly awaiting Christmas with his family, aiming to surprise them upon his return.
“This is so painful to lose a husband who is caring and a kind-hearted person. He wants to help everyone who asks him for help. We miss him,” Ms. Dawai lamented.
The community and authorities remain hopeful as search operations continue, demonstrating solidarity with the family during this challenging time. It’s a reminder of the importance of safety around water bodies, especially during recreational activities.
This incident underscores the risks associated with river activities and the need for vigilance, especially in areas with strong currents. The search also highlights the commitment of emergency services in their efforts to locate missing individuals.
This story sheds light on the profound personal impact such tragedies have on families and communities, and it is a call for support during difficult times.
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