A 15-year-old boy who tragically drowned at North Avoca Beach on Christmas Eve has been identified as Luca Bennett. Luca was swept off rocks alongside two friends at about 3 PM, with the horrifying incident occurring just hours before families gathered to celebrate the holiday. Unfortunately, only the two other boys managed to scramble to safety and raise the alarm about their missing friend, causing immediate concern and action from local authorities.
Luca, who has been remembered as the “most perfect son” by his devastated family, was the subject of extensive search operations conducted by various emergency services throughout Christmas Day. His parents expressed their unending gratitude for the outpouring of support from the community, stating on social media, “Everyone is doing the best they can to search for him and bring him home to us.” Tragically, hopes of finding Luca alive were dashed when authorities announced on Boxing Day the search would transition from rescue to recovery.
The search operation involved police, water rescue teams, and volunteers from Marine Rescue NSW, who dedicated their Christmas Eve and Christmas Day to the search efforts along the coastline. According to marine rescue personnel, emphasis was placed on safety, especially after another dangerous incident nearby when a man fell several meters onto rocks, prompting authorities to caution visitors about the risks associated with rocky coastal areas.
Following expert advice, the NSW Police confirmed the change of approach on December 26, stating, “Following expert advice, commencing at 6 AM today ... the operation will move to recovery phase with resources being scaled back.” Emergency responders had initially launched a comprehensive multi-agency search from land, sea, and air, but as the days passed with no signs of Luca, the grim realities set in.
Luca’s family, heartbroken over the loss, shared their sorrow on social media: “Yesterday we lost our darling beloved Luca J.” Friends and loved ones have gathered to pay tribute to Luca, leaving heartfelt messages and tributes etched on local rock faces. A significant tribute read, “Luca Bennett 2009-2024” and “Forever 15,” reflecting the void left by his absence and the sorrow felt by all who knew him. The community has rallied together to honor Luca’s life, sharing memories and expressing love and support for the grieving family.
Devastated friends took to their social media platforms to reminisce about their beloved friend, with one commenter stating, “He made so many people smile,” and expressing how deeply he is loved by his close-knit community. Amid such overwhelming grief, Luca’s family has asked everyone to keep him in their thoughts and play some of Frank Ocean’s music, which he loved dearly.
This deeply tragic incident serves as not only the remembrance of Luca’s vibrant life but also as a sobering reminder for beachgoers about safety measures when near rocky shorelines. With the holidays often attracting crowds to the coast, local authorities are reiteratively warning visitors to remain vigilant and cautious to prevent such heart-wrenching incidents from occurring again.
Reports confirm the commitment displayed by volunteers throughout the search was exceptional, highlighting the selflessness of those who offered their time during the holiday season. Marine Rescue NSW Inspector, Courtney Greenslade, commended the community effort saying, “The commitment displayed by our volunteers both on the water and in radio operations yesterday and today has been exceptional.” Such community spirit was prominently visible as friends and supporters gathered at the beach, participating warmly and thoughtfully during this trying time.
The local police have also encouraged anyone with information related to the incident to contact Brisbane Water Police or Crime Stoppers, ensuring the community remains engaged and supportive as they navigate through the dark clouds cast by Luka’s disappearance.
Overall, the memory of Luca Bennett will endure as his family and friends carry forward their love and cherished moments spent with him. The community, deeply affected by this tragedy, has come together to support the grieving family, highlighting both the pain of loss and the healing power of remembrance and love.
