The family of an eight-year-old boy Sol who lost his life in the Fernhook Falls rapids near Walpole earlier this month has issued a statement.
“Sol was much loved by his parents, his brothers, and his community,” the message reads.
“Our deepest thanks go to the Police, Emergency Services, Community Volunteers, and Civilian Contractors.”
“Our deepest thanks go to the Police, Emergency Services, Community Volunteers, and Civilian Contractors.”
The family also acknowledge the many individuals who gave everything in extreme conditions to recover their boy.
“We would also like to thank our friends and family for their comfort and support,” they said.
“We now ask that you respect our privacy.”
Complex operation for police divers
Police divers recovered his body on Sunday morning, October 17.
Great Southern Police superintendent Kim Travers issued a statement saying the search team located the boy on Friday October 15 before starting a “complex operation” to recover his body.
“The recovery would not have been possible without the mutual trust and respect of the family who have remained on site throughout this recovery operation,” she said.
“The collaboration between Police, Department of Fire and Emergency Service, State Emergency Service, St John Ambulance, Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions, and Fugro who provided the technical expertise and specialist underwater equipment, made this recovery possible.
“The circumstances surrounding this heartbreaking incident will be subject of a report to the Coroner,” Supt Travers said.
