Kamenieli Varo, a father of five, is feared to be the latest victim of drowning in New South Wales after he reportedly went missing in the Murrumbidgee River near Yanco on Sunday. NSW Police received notification around 5:15 PM on November 3 about a 32-year-old man who had disappeared in the river. Emergency services quickly arrived at Middle Beach, Yanco, to conduct a search.
The search operation, which involved officers from the Murrumbidgee Police District along with NSW Ambulance, the State Emergency Service (SES), and the Volunteer Rescue Association, was extensive but did not succeed in locating Mr. Varo. Unfortunately, the efforts had to be suspended around 8 PM due to low visibility and hazardous river conditions. A renewed search was initiated on Monday, but his body has not yet been found.
The Murrumbidgee River, recognized as one of Australia’s longest rivers and a significant tributary of the Murray River, is known for its strong currents, which may have swept Mr. Varo beneath the water. Friends reportedly tried to rescue him but were unable to do so.
Mr. Varo had relocated to Australia in 2022 as part of the National Employment Centre (NEC) Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) scheme, aiming to complete a four-year work contract next year. His family, who lives in Navakai, Fiji, is grappling with the tragedy. His wife, Mere Dawai, shared that their last conversation took place on Sunday just before he went for a picnic with friends. During that call, he expressed his excitement about returning home for Christmas and had plans to surprise his family.
Ms. Dawai described her husband as a caring and kind-hearted individual who was eager to help others. She expressed deep sorrow over his loss, emphasizing the painful reality of missing her husband who dreamed of building a home for their family after completing his work in Australia.
This heartbreaking incident serves as a reminder of the dangers associated with water activities, particularly in strong currents. It also highlights the emotional impact such tragedies have on families, as they navigate their profound loss.
In times like these, communities come together to support one another in healing and remembrance. The hope remains that the search effort will bring closure to Mr. Varo’s family, enabling them to honor his memory and the love he shared with them.
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