A British father and son have been identified as the victims of a tragic drowning incident at Seventeen Seventy, a popular coastal town located on the southern tip of Queensland’s Great Barrier Reef. Robin Reed, 46, and his 17-year-old son, Owen Reed, perished after being swept out to sea while swimming on April 13th. Local authorities reported that the pair were swimming at a beach area lacking lifeguard coverage when they encountered strong currents and were subsequently pulled under.
The incident occurred in Seventeen Seventy, a town historically named after Captain James Cook’s arrival in Australia in 1770. Emergency services responded swiftly to reports of the drowning, with a police rescue helicopter conducting a water search and successfully retrieving the pair from the ocean. Sadly, despite immediate medical attention provided at the scene, both Robin and Owen were pronounced dead by paramedics.
The tragedy has prompted widespread grief within the local community. Treowen Stars Football Club, based near Newbridge in Caerphilly county, Wales – where the Reeds resided – released a heartfelt tribute on Facebook, describing Robin as “a good friend to many” and expressing deep sorrow at his loss. The club’s statement highlighted the devastating impact of the tragedy on the family and their friends.
The Coroners Court of Queensland is currently undertaking an initial investigation into the circumstances surrounding the deaths. While details remain limited due to the ongoing inquiry, authorities have confirmed that the case has been reported to the court. It’s important to note that Australia recorded 107 drownings in 2023, with a significant proportion – approximately 25% – of victims being born overseas, highlighting the risks associated with swimming in unfamiliar waters and the importance of water safety awareness.
The incident serves as a poignant reminder of the inherent dangers of coastal environments and underscores the need for vigilance and adherence to established safety protocols when enjoying beaches and waterways. Further updates will be provided as the coronial investigation progresses.
