Kaminieli Varo, a 32-year-old father of five, was laid to rest in his hometown of Navoci, Nadi, last Friday. Tragically, he drowned earlier this month in the Murrumbidgee River near Yanco, New South Wales, Australia. His body was discovered a few days later.
Varo had relocated to Australia in 2022 as part of the National Employment Centre (NEC) Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) Scheme, with a four-year employment contract set to conclude next year. His wife, Mere Dawai, shared that he was planning to return home just in time to celebrate Christmas with his family.
Friends and family gathered to pay their last respects, expressing their gratitude to those who participated in the search for his body. A coworker, who delivered the eulogy, highlighted Varo’s dedication as a family man who worked tirelessly to provide for his loved ones.
He leaves behind his wife and five children, a poignant reminder of his commitment to family and community.
This tragic loss underlines the importance of safety, especially near water bodies. In the face of such grief, it’s heartening to see the community come together to support Varo’s family during this difficult time. His legacy of hard work and dedication to his family will undoubtedly continue to inspire those who knew him.
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