Southern 80 tragedy: Water-skier Luke Wentworth dies in Echuca River race

A water skier who tragically died during a major event near the Victoria-NSW border has been remembered as a wonderful and generous man with the “most beautiful smile”.

Emergency services were called to an area near Perricoota Road, Echuca-Moama, at around 10am on Sunday following reports that a water skier in his early 40s had fallen into the Echuca River while preparing for the Southern 80 race.

Luke Wentworth could not be revived and died at the scene.

It is understood the tragedy occurred within an hour of the race starting.

Mr Wentworth’s death led to an outpouring of tributes.

“Luke was the most wonderful young man… and his family is so beautiful. If I wanted something done, all I had to do was ask him, a family friend told the Herald Sun.

‘I just can’t believe he’s gone. It’s such a big, big loss.”

The race, attended by thousands of spectators, was canceled following the tragedy as NSW Police launched an investigation.

“The investigation is still in its early stages and it is unfolding as we speak,” Moama Chief Inspector Paul Haggett told reporters.

‘They affect the whole community, from the emergency services to the bloke who runs the fish and chip shop.

“This will impact the community for months, long after everyone has gone home.”

NSW Police and maritime officers have launched an investigation into the Echuca River tragedy

Moama Water Sports Club chairman Steve Shipp said the club is cooperating with investigations by NSW Police and Transport for NSW – Maritime.

“As a ski racing family, we are here to support the affected family and team members and the wider ski racing community at this terribly sad time,” he said in a statement.

The police will prepare a report for the coroner.

Anyone with information about the incident or video footage is urged to call police or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

The popular annual Southern 80 water ski race was canceled after the skier’s death