More than $50,000 has been raised for the family of an Indian national who drowned near Apollo Bay earlier this month, as experts warn of the potential for more deaths over the Easter long weekend.
Jil Khokhara, 26, was one of three men who were swept away while swimming at Marango beach on March 17.
Bystanders and local lifeguards managed to rescue his friends but Mr Kholkara, who lived in Tarneit and was in Australia on an international Student Visa, died at the scene.
He had been in Australia for just 10 months.
A GoFundme page set up to raise funds for his family described Mr Kholkara as a loving man who hoped to support his family financially.
“Jil was known for his kind heart, diligent work ethic, and being an exceptional friend and son,” the page reads.
“Jil’s passing has not only left his family in deep mourning but has also put his cousin brother, Jignesh, in critical condition fighting for his life in the ICU.”
Mr Kholkara’s death comes on top of 99 drownings around Australia between December 1 and February 29, with experts fearing more fatalities will occur over the looming Easter long weekend.
The Royal Life Saving Society’s Dr Will Coon said the four day break has claimed 123 lives through drowning over the last 20 years – an average of 6 every year.
“Anyone headed out to enjoy the water, go for a swim or get on a boat, really does need to keep water safety top of mind.”
