Two young boys from a close-knit junior rugby league club on Queensland‘s Gold Coast have died following separate battles with mental health.
Kaiyah Kennedy, 12, and Treyvon Te Tahi Bradshaw, 13, passed away just six days apart, devastating their families, teammates and the wider community.
The boys both played for the Coomera Cutters Rugby League Club and have been remembered as ‘two beautiful young boys’ whose deaths have left the club and local community in mourning.
Treyvon died on September 26. In a heartfelt tribute, his family remembered him for his ‘kind heart, loving nature, his love of footy and sport, and the way he made friends wherever he went.’
‘Seeing just how many people loved our boy has been so overwhelming. As a mum, there are no words to describe what it means to see so many people come together for him,’ his mother Sarah said in an online tribute.
‘I wish more than anything he was still here to see just how loved he truly was.’
A GoFundMe, launched to help the family through the coming months, has raised $29,000.
Kaiyah, who passed away on October 2, was remembered as a ‘beloved middle child, a mischievous and loving brother’ and a ‘bright light.’
Treyvon Te Tahi Bradshaw, 13, died on September 26 after a battle with mental health
Six days later, Kaiyah Kennedy, 12, passed away
The Coomera Cutters Rugby League Club have paid tribute to the boys and urged players to band together in the wake of the tragedy
‘He was a proud Aboriginal boy who deeply loved learning and being immersed in his culture. He was also an absolute ball of energy and fun,’ GoFundMe organiser Josh Morris said.
‘While he certainly liked to test the rules and everyone’s patience, he did it with a charm that meant you wouldn’t have him any other way. There was never a dull moment with Kaiyah, and his absence will forever leave an echoing void.’
Meanwhile the boys’ club has urged its young players to band together in the wake of the tragedy.
‘Our Coomera Cutters family is deeply saddened by the heartbreaking loss of two beautiful young boys from our wider community,’ the club said in an online post.
‘Our love, thoughts and strength are with their families, friends, teammates, coaches and everyone who knew and loved them.
‘To our Cutters family – please look after one another. If you’re struggling, you are never alone. Speak to someone you trust, reach out, and remember that you are loved, valued and you matter.
‘Please check in on your mates. Be kind. Listen. Forever remembered. Never forgotten.’
If this story affected you, contact Lifeline 13 11 14 or Kids Helpline on 1800 55 1800
