A man in his 30s has died after heroically saving the life of his young son after their kayak capsized at Gwandalan.
Emergency services were called to a park in Koowong Rd on Lake Macquarie around 5:30pm on Friday, October 1, after reports a man had been pulled from the water by bystanders.
Peter Finch and his four-year-old son were pulled to shore by members of the public who attempted CPR on the father until paramedics arrived but despite the best efforts of both bystanders and paramedics, he could not be saved.
“It appears the man has heroically held the young boy above the water when they’ve tipped over, saving his life,” said NSW Ambulance Inspector, Andrew Craig.
“Unfortunately, despite the best efforts of bystanders and paramedics, the man was unable to be revived.”
Inspector Craig said it was a “very emotional scene” and praised those who rendered first aid before paramedics arrived.
The young boy was assessed at the scene by a specialist medical team and was physically uninjured.
Tuggerah Lakes Police officers attended and a report will be prepared for the Coroner.
Friends and family have set up a GoFundMe drive to help his wife, little boy and baby girl through this difficult time.
Sue Murray