Warden Allan Collins, who lives close to the wharf, said Tathra and Kalaru would need time to come to terms with the loss of three members of a local family.

Mr Collins said the town was in the deepest shock following the tragedy.

“We can only be with these people and offer them our deepest sympathies.”

He said the community, especially the life saving community was still dealing with the loss of lifesaver and teacher Ben Ellis who passed away last year.

Members of the Tathra Lifesaving Club were meeting at the time of Tuesday’s accident, and immediately sent a rubber ducky across to the wharf.

Members were being debriefed and offered counselling yesterday, he said.

The community is still also mourning the loss of the Bell children at Pericoe who died in June this year.

The Mayor of the Bega Valley Shire, Cr Tony Allen, has offered the sympathy of the community to the O’Neill family.

“This is an unbelievable tragedy that touches all our hearts,” he said.

“Our heartfelt sympathy as a community goes out to all affected, particularly family, friends and colleagues.

“I also pay tribute to the police and ambulance officers and to the volunteer surf lifesavers who worked so hard trying to save the young family.”