Sixteen-year-old girl killed in horror Australia Day boat crash is identified – as witnesses reveal confronting details about the crash and the desperate efforts to save her life
The teenage girl killed in a horror boating accident on Australia Day has been identified as 16-year-old Darcy Sutherland – as new details emerge about the frantic efforts of witnesses and paramedics to save her life.
Two tinnies, both driven by 16-year-old boys, collided near the Grays Point boat ramp, 30km south of Sydney, shortly after 10.15am on Friday.
According to witnesses, Ms Sutherland was thrown into the water and floated face down for five minutes before onlookers began CPR.
Paramedics frantically tried to resuscitate the teenager on the seafront before she was rushed to St George Hospital, where she later died.
Tributes have been paid to the teenager since the Australia Day incident, with friends leaving their condolences on Ms Sutherland's most recent TikTok video.
A close-knit community mourns 16-year-old Darcy Sutherland (photo)
Ms Sutherland (pictured next to a friend in one of her latest TikToks) was thrown into the water by the force of the collision
“God bless you sis,” someone wrote on her most recent video.
“Rest in peace beautiful girl, you will be missed by all who knew you,” a second commented.
“Forever in my heart, the best cousin in the world,” shared a third.
Meanwhile, a Grays Point Facebook page said the “entire community is shocked by the tragedy.”
It shared a link to one GoFundMe page for Ms Sutherland's family, which has already raised more than $20,000.
“We know everyone is feeling a little helpless and don't know what to say to those affected – here's a way to contribute to the beautiful Darcy's family to show your support,” the fundraiser creator wrote.
'We have received numerous requests about how we can help and we are creating this page to help the family with the necessary arrangements.
“Thank you for your love and support and coming to assist the family during this difficult time.”
Donors left messages of support for the Sutherland family.
“I am heartbroken that this beautiful girl is gone too soon,” one person wrote.
“I pray that your family may find the strength to live with their forever broken hearts and keep your memory alive. Rest beautiful girl.'
Distressed bystanders were seen hugging as police spoke to witnesses after the crash
Two Tinnes (pictured) collided in Grays Point, south of Sydney, on Friday morning
The GoFundMe link was shared by the Miranda Magpies FC football club.
“Yesterday's tragedy on the water has affected our Magpies family,” the message read.
“Our hearts and thoughts go out to the Sutherland family at this very difficult time.”
Distraught witnesses could be seen hugging and comforting each other as paramedics worked to revive Ms Sutherland on Friday.
The two 16-year-old boys driving the two ships were taken to St George Hospital for mandatory tests.
The boats have been seized for investigation and police are investigating the circumstances surrounding the crash.
A report will be prepared for the coroner.