The late Tevita Mahe with his son Salesi. Photo: Supplied.
The small Riverina town of Yenda (population: 1500) has rallied to support the teenage son and family of its resident Tevita Mahe, who died on Australia Day after an accident on the Murrumbidgee River.
Mr Mahe played fullback for the Yenda Blueheelers rugby league football club, which teamed up with the local pub Yenda Hotel to organise a fundraising night to help the family with expenses.
“Everyone at the club and the town is in shock but we are doing as well as expected,” Blueheelers committee member and event organiser Jodie Payne said.
“The whole football community knows Tevita.
“Our fundraiser for his family will be held at the Yenda Hotel [near Griffith] this Friday (31 January). Everyone is welcome to come. Ticket sales will kick off at 6 pm and we’ll start raffling at 7 pm to 7:30 pm. We’ll also have an auction of some of the bigger items and there’ll also be a donations bucket at the hotel.”
Mr Mahe, 37, fell off a recreational floating device being towed by a boat in the waters off Bunyip Hole Campground on the Murrumbidgee River on Sunday (26 January).
When he failed to resurface and could not be located, emergency services were notified. His body was found two days later after an extensive search involving NSW Police divers, Murrumbidgee Police District officers, NSW Ambulance, State Emergency Services (SES) and the Volunteer Rescue Association (VRA).
A crime scene has been established and a report is being prepared for the coroner.
Given the funeral cost and other expenses faced by the family, the Blueheelers club also accepted online donations.
“We thought it was better to get people to donate directly to the club account, so all the money can go directly to the family, rather than setting up a GoFundMe page that takes a proportion of the proceeds. You can also come and make a donation at the Yenda Hotel,” Ms Payne said.
A talented fullback, Mr Mahe was known for his pace and try-scoring ability.
“He played across all grades and even coached the reserve grade team to a grand final,” the club posted on Facebook.
“A true larrikin, Tevita was not only cherished by the Yenda community but by so many within Group 20 as well. His presence, warmth and infectious personality touched countless lives.
“Tevita leaves behind a void that will be felt by many. Our thoughts and love are with [his teenage son] Salesi and the entire Mahe family during this incredibly difficult time. We will miss you dearly, T. We hope you’re up there singing Purple Rain.”
The community fundraiser for Salesi and the Mahe family will begin at 6 pm on Friday 31 January at the Yenda Hotel, 2 Yenda Place, Yenda. All are welcome.
Original article published by Oliver Jacques on Region Riverina.
Loading ...
