Thousands raised for Paralowie teen’s funeral after Yorke Peninsula drowning

There’s been an outpouring of grief and support for the family of a Paralowie boy who drowned trying to save a mate at the weekend.

Tens of thousands of dollars have been raised in less than a day to help pay for the funeral of Paralowie teenager who drowned off the Yorke Peninsula this weekend.

More than $31,000 was raised via GoFundMe to give Ahmad Alfarhan, 16, a hero’s farewell after he died trying to save a friend from the water at Browns Beach.

Police divers recovered the boy’s body at about 11.30am yesterday.

Ahmad Alfarhan whose body was recovered in waters off Browns Beach on Sunday. Picture: SA Police

The Pinnacle College student was fishing on a school trip on Saturday when police say he leapt into the water to save a friend.

Superintendent Mark Syrus said one of Ahmad’s fellow students slipped from off rocks, prompting Ahmad to dive in after him.

“(He) went in to save his mate. We really see that as a heroic act, but unfortunately it was to his demise,” Superintendent Syrus said.

Adelaide Sister’s Association member Lena Allouche – who set up the fundraiser – said their group wanted to do something to help the mourning family.

“It’s a big amount of money to come up with in 24 hours … we just wanted to help as much as we could,” Ms Allouche said.”

She said for adherents to the Islamic faith it was important for the body to be buried within 24 hours of death.

Members of the ASA will visit Ahmad’s family soon to share the funds and discuss how they could use the money.

Police talk to relatives at the scene of the drowning at Browns Beach, Yorke Peninsula, Sunday March 28, 2021 – pic Mike Burton

Pinnacle College has paid tribute to Ahmad as well as offering grief counselling to students and staff.

Many, including strangers, have taken to social media to expressing their sadness and pay tribute to Ahmad’s selfless actions.

“So sad, doing a heroic thing for a mate,” one woman wrote.

“A heroic gesture for which he paid the ultimate price. RIP,” said another.

A large scale search was launched for Ahmad on Saturday morning with police, local fishermen, sea rescue, SES, CFS, National Parks and police helicopters but was called off about 7pm. Divers made the grim discovery shortly after the search resumed Sunday.

Donate to the fundraiser here