Tributes flow for Moto farmer David Knowles, 63, after tragic Mid-North Coast flood death

Tributes are flowing for “legendary” Moto farmer David Knowles – the first identified victim of the Mid-North Coast flood disaster – as his last heroic act before his death has been revealed.

Moto farmer David Knowles was found dead in floodwaters on Wednesday. Picture: Supplied.

Tributes are flowing for “legendary” Moto farmer David Knowles – the first identified victim of the Mid-North Coast flood disaster – as his last heroic act before his death has been revealed.

Mr Knowles, 63, died on Wednesday after remaining at his property on North Moto Road outside Taree to look after his cattle as floodwaters closed in on him.

His body was found by police at about 3pm after they accessed the property by boat.

It can now be revealed that Mr Knowles had earlier declined assistance in an attempt to help another family further upstream.

On Thursday, Floyd Goodwin, captain of the Kundle Moto Rural Fire Service, said the community would need time to process the death of the local farmer.

“Everyone around here knew him,” Mr Goodwin said.

“But it is very hard to take in just what has happened at the moment.”

David Knowles, 63, was found dead at his home at Coopernook, south of Port Macquarie, about 3pm on Wednesday. He is pictured with his daughter Stacey Hurrell

Reports indicated that rescuers had arrived at his property by boat on Wednesday afternoon but Mr Knowles instead opted to stay with his dog and 30-head of cattle. He was caught by the rising waters from the Landsdowne River.

State Emergency Operations Centre deputy commissioner Peter Thurtell said a neighbour had noticed Mr Knowles body on the verandah. He said “existing medical conditions” may have been involved in his death.

In the wake of his tragic passing, scores of locals have paid tribute to Mr Knowles, calling him a “legend”, a “top notch bloke” and as a result of his final moments, a “hero”.

“We have lost a legend and we need your support! A man of his community. A father, an uncle, a brother, a grandfather, a son. He was so many things to so many people,” family friend Kayla Greenhalgh wrote on a GoFundMe fundraiser.

Tributes are flowing for Mr Knowles and he has been deemed a “hero”. Picture: Supplied / GoFundMe.

“Dave unfortunately lost his life on his property, declining assistance in order to save a family further upstream. We salute his effort and praise his heart, but now it’s time to pick up the pieces and give that man the send off he deserves. He is a HERO!,” Ms Greenhalgh continued.

“The family have lost their homes, their herd of cows, all their animals, belongings and need help to recover.”

On Facebook, Cheyenne-Jade Raward said Mr Knowles was a “true farmer and tough as nails”.

Cindy Earl added: “Condolences to Sam, Roxy, Stacey and all the grandchildren. He was a pleasure to know as a neighbour and friend. RIP. A true Aussie farmer.”

Trudie Hull said the death was “devastating” and said Mr Knowles was a “top notch bloke”.

Emma Staniland added: “Absolutely heartbreaking. What a selfless legend for this ultimate sacrifice. A true hero.”

A report will be prepared for the Coroner in relation to Mr Knowles’ death.

Originally published as Tributes flow for Moto farmer David Knowles, 63, after tragic Mid-North Coast flood death