A fundraiser has been set up to support the family of a young Irishman who was killed in a sudden accident in Australia on Monday.
It was revealed earlier this week that Shane Irwin of Bocks Upper, Carrickmacross, Co. Monaghan, had tragically died ‘following an accident in Perth’, according to his death notice.
His notice on RIP.ie said the man was ‘predeceased by his sister Katie who died in infancy’ and would be ‘deeply regretted and sadly missed by his heartbroken parents’.
Now a fundraiser has been set up, revealing that the young man was actually in a ‘motor accident’ and had ‘succumbed to his injuries’ following a ‘brave battle’.
The GoFundMe, which has now raised €37,000 of its €62,000 goal is hoping to ‘ease some of the pressures’ for the family as they deal with Shane’s sudden death.
Paying tribute to the young man, it reads: ‘Shane had a character that was infectious and a smile that would light a room. Anyone who was lucky enough to have spent time with him during his time in Australia would give testament to this.
‘During this devastating time for his family both in Australia and at home in Ireland, we would greatly appreciate any donations that will help make this difficult time a little less stressful and allow his family to grieve without additional stress
‘Any donation, big or small, would be greatly appreciated. The support and generosity shown during this heartbreaking time will help ease some of the pressures surrounding Shane’s passing and allow those closest to him to focus on remembering and celebrating the incredible person he was.’
It later thanks the Royal Flying Doctor Service Perth, Royal Intensive Care Unit Perth, Kevin Bell Repatriation Trust and the Claddagh association for their help to the family during this difficult time.
A number of tributes have since been paid to Shane, led by GAA club Crossmaglen Rangers on Facebook.
The club wrote: ‘Our deepest condolences to the Irwin and McGuinness families on the tragic loss of your beloved Son, Brother, Nephew, Cousin and friend Shane. A number of cousins of Shane’s are current players
‘You are all in our thoughts and prayers at this heartbreaking time. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.’
Many more tributes were paid by people deeply saddened by the loss.
One person shared: ‘So sad. Such a gorgeous young man. All any of us want is for our children to be safe and happy.
‘God bless him. Praying for his dear parents and family. May God give you strength at this difficult time.’
‘Please accept my sincere condolences on the tragic death of Shane, your beloved son. I remember him from his childhood to turning into a lovely young man,’ another said.
A third wrote: ‘We are heartbroken for you all. We have no words to describe our pain – we absolutely loved Shane. Such a special young man! May God bless you, Helen, Bob and family.’
