Luke Wentworth, who was killed during the Southern 80, was a beloved son, brother, brother-in-law and uncle. Photo: Supplied
The sister of deceased Gassa skier Luke Wentworth has spoken about her beloved brother, who tragically died during a Southern 80 racing event on the weekend.
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“It is with a very heavy heart and deep sadness that I can confirm that my brother Luke was killed this morning in a ski accident while racing in the Southern 80,” Bree McNair said.
“Our family are absolutely devastated and trying to come to terms with the sudden and tragic loss of our beloved son, brother, brother-in-law and uncle.
“Our hearts are broken not only for our family but for the whole Gassa Ski race team, and we ask for your privacy and understanding at this very emotional and hard time.”
His mother Annie had expressed her concern about the competition prior to the day, posting on Facebook: ‘'Just please get to the finish line in one piece.“
The eery message is a sentiment shared by the friends and family of all competitors no doubt.
For Dave ‘Bisho’ Bishop, who was celebrating 30 years since he began commentating at the event, it was a day instead marred with sadness.
“As most of you will know the day ended in absolute tragedy with the loss of a competitor and member of the ski race family. Our condolences to Luke’s family, the Gassa team and all his friends and the ski racing family,” he said.
Murray River Council Mayor Frank Crawley also expressed his condolences towards Mr Wentworth’s family and the boating community more generally during this difficult time.
“We extend our sympathy and condolences to the families, to the boating community, to the organisations and volunteers involved, and also to our local community,” he said.
“We know that the boating community is very close-knit, and I’m certain that they would be suffering at the moment. So, we certainly send out condolences on behalf of the council and community.”
The Murray River Council has confirmed they will continue to support the Moama Water Sports Club in the future, and will be in contact with the NSW regarding the events on Sunday.
“Council, along with all other relevant stakeholders, will be briefed on the circumstances surrounding the accident when deemed appropriate by the NSW Police,” the council said.
“Investigations surrounding the incident and matters of safety will continue to be led by Moama Water Sports Club and NSW Police.
“Murray River Council have always been a strong supporter of the Southern 80 event and will continue to support the Moama Water Sports Club in their future efforts.”
Murray River Council Mayor Frank Crawley extended his condolences to Luke’s family as well as the boating community. Photo: Supplied
Cr Crawley has been assured that all safety measures were followed but said more questions needed to be asked about whether there was enough protection for competitors.
“I’ve been told that all the necessary permits and safety controls and systems were in place. There was some comment that the river level wasn’t at the right level. I’ve been told that isn’t correct,” he said.
“Obviously, with this tragic death, we do need to have a look at it and see if we can find out if any further controls can be implemented to minimise the risk going forward.”
Campaspe Council Mayor Rob Amos also released a statement regarding the incident.
“Campaspe Shire Council sends deepest condolences to the family, friends and teammates of the competitor who was tragically killed during the Southern 80 ski race on the weekend,” he said.
“Our thoughts are with the ski community, organisers and first responders, and our wider Echuca Moama community.”
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