In a heart-rending incident at Kilcunda Surf Beach, southeast of Melbourne, Sahil Panwar, a young man in his 20s, lost his life in a tragic drowning accident. The incident occurred around 8.30 pm on Friday, leaving his family and friends in profound grief.
Sahil, who was enjoying a swim with his friends, was swept out to sea while trying to retrieve his sunglasses.
Despite the desperate efforts of his friends and emergency services, Sahil was found unresponsive on the beach about an hour later. Paramedics rushed to the scene, but tragically, he was pronounced dead at the location.
The Indian Australian community is reeling from the news of Sahil’s untimely demise. He was known for his vibrant personality, infectious laughter, and zest for life. Living in Cranbourne East, 80km from the beach, Sahil was a beloved husband, son, brother, and friend.
He leaves behind his wife, with whom he had shared a happy life over the past four years.
In the wake of this tragedy, Sahil’s cousin, Sunil Kumar, has set up a GoFundMe page to support the family during this difficult time. The fund aims to cover the costs of repatriating Sahil’s body to his home country, India, and to help with funeral expenses. At the time of publication, over $32,000 had been raised.
Sahil’s death is part of a string of drownings that occurred in Victoria on Friday. Earlier in the day, a man was found deceased at Merri Creek in Coburg, and another man was pulled from the waters of Phillip Island but could not be revived. Additionally, a 51-year-old man died near Port Welshpool in Gippsland while freediving with friends.
Victoria Police have stated that Sahil’s death is not being treated as suspicious. They remind beach-goers that Kilcunda Surf Beach, known for its rips and rocks, demands caution, especially in surf conditions.
The local community and Sahil’s loved ones are mourning the loss of a young life taken too soon. His absence has created a void that his family and friends feel deeply.
The incident serves as a somber reminder of the unpredictable nature of the sea and the importance of water safety.
Support Our Journalism
Global Indian Diaspora needs fair, non-hyphenated, and questioning journalism, packed with on-ground reporting. The Australia Today – with exceptional reporters, columnists, and editors – is doing just that. Sustaining this needs support from wonderful readers like you.
Whether you live in Australia, the United Kingdom, Canada, the United States of America, or India you can take a paid subscription by clicking Patreon. Buy an annual ‘The Australia Today Membership’ to support independent journalism and get special benefits.
