A British father and son tragically lost their lives after being swept away while swimming off the coast of Queensland, Australia, near the Great Barrier Reef.
Robin Reed, 46, and his 17-year-old son Owen were caught in treacherous waters near the town of Seventeen Seventy on April 14. The pair had been swimming at a beach that lacked lifeguard supervision when they encountered dangerous conditions.
Local authorities noted that the area is widely regarded as hazardous for swimmers, and stronger-than-usual winds on the day of the incident made the rocky shoreline even more perilous.
Emergency services, including a police helicopter, responded to the scene and pulled both Robin and Owen from the water. However, both were pronounced dead at the scene.
A third man, 37-year-old Mike Evans, reportedly sustained serious injuries while attempting to rescue the father and son. He was transported to hospital for treatment.
Back in Wales, the local community in Caerphilly is mourning the loss. Treowen Stars FC, a local football club with ties to the Reed family, shared a heartfelt tribute on Facebook.
“Awful, awful news about Robin Reed and his son Owen,” the club posted. “Our thoughts and deepest condolences with Robin and Owen’s family and friends. Robin was a good friend to many at Treowen and will be missed. Rest in peace both.”
