Blake went home to the NSW south coast to visit his family for Christmas. But a freak accident at a local swimming spot changed his life forever

A sporty and enterprising teenager faces a long road to recovery after a freak accident changed his life in one fell swoop.

Blake D’Ombrain, 19, moved to Wagga Wagga in the NSW Riverina where he set up his own business as a concrete worker, but was back home visiting family on the state’s south coast over the Christmas holidays when tragedy struck.

On December 30, Mr D’Ombrain visited the Gantry at Bawley Point, where he jumped from the platform into the water.

He landed awkwardly, with his head and neck taking most of the impact, and suffered a ‘catastrophic’ spinal cord injury.

His younger sister Hailey and other beachgoers pulled the injured teen from the water.

Bystanders and emergency workers provided first aid until D’Ombrain was flown to Sydney’s Royal North Shore Hospital, where he underwent “a grueling ten-hour operation.”

Mr D’Ombrain will remain in intensive care there for several more weeks before being transferred to the spinal injuries unit at the Prince of Wales Hospital.

‘Blake is a lively, fit and sporty young man. He grew up on the South Coast of NSW where he attended Milton Public School and Ulladulla High,” family friend Melinda Croan wrote in a post GoFundMe page.

On December 30, Mr D’Ombrain went to the Gantry at Bawley Point (pictured) where his life changed in an instant

‘Along with his siblings, Hailey, Maddison and Harrison, Blake played all sports with a passion – excelling in running and football.’

Mr D’Ombrain is expected to remain at the Prince of Wale Hospital for up to a year.

“There is no doubt that Blake has a difficult road ahead of her,” Ms Croan continued.

‘His family will be by his side to support and assist him in his intensive therapy.

“Any support you can offer Blake and his family during this challenging time would be greatly appreciated.”

The community has rallied for Mr D’Ombrain, whose mother Kim “is a beloved local primary school teacher” and whose family is active in many local sporting groups.

Blake D’Ombrain (photo) is expected to spend a year recovering in hospital

As of Monday evening, the fundraiser had already raised more than $26,000.

Mr D’Ombrain is described as ‘a kind-hearted person who enjoys helping anyone in need’.

“Blake’s tragedy took everyone by surprise and shocked our small community,” rugby league teammate and friend Caleb Haddin said. The South Coast News.

‘Blake has always been the fittest on the park, showing his hardworking character by playing under 18s and making his first grade debut in his first year at the club.’

Mr D’Ombrain’s older sister Maddison told the publication she was ‘devastated’.

“Any support in the form of words, donations or messages is greatly appreciated,” she said.

“The doctors have told us that positive messages, prayers and support can make all the difference.”