Friends and family are mourning the deaths of two “promising young students” who drowned at a popular waterfall in Far North Queensland.
Tributes to Chaitanya Mupparaju and Surya Teja Bobba began pouring in online yesterday as news spread through various Indian communities.
The men were found dead after going swimming at Millaa Millaa Falls, about 70 kilometres south of Cairns, on Tuesday morning.
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Their deaths provoked an outpouring of grief and warnings to be certain about swimming abilities before going near the water.
In an online fundraiser that had already raised more than $90,000 by last night, Surya Mangapati said the tragedy left “their families and loved ones shattered beyond words”.
“Their untimely departure has left a void that can never be filled,” he said, describing the men as “promising young students”.
“In this time of profound grief, we are coming together to support their families during this unimaginably difficult period.
“Your generous contributions will help alleviate the financial burden of funeral expenses and provide some measure of relief as they navigate through this heartbreaking loss.”
The Queensland Telugu Association, an organisation devoted to promote the Indian language group’s culture and literature in the state, said the pair’s remains would arrive in Brisbane within one to two days before being repatriated to Hyderabad, capital of the Telangana state.
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“Our thoughts and prayers continue to be with the families and loved ones of the deceased,” the association said, on Facebook.
“We stand united in supporting our Telugu community as we navigate this profound loss together.
“Please join us in offering condolences, sharing the campaign, and extending support to the families affected by this heartbreaking incident.”
Earlier this week, Detective Inspector Jason Smith warned visitors to only swim in areas where they were certain they had the ability to do so safely.
“Two men entered the water from the shore, they did not jump from the rocks,” Smith said.
“It appears one man got into difficulty and then a second man has come to render assistance but unfortunately they both perished.”
He said a third man who tried to help was treated at the scene for shock and temperature exposure.
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