Vincent ‘Vinnie’ Sweeney dies after being found with mysterious injuries near Ballina in northern NSW

The heartbroken family of a Byron Bay plumber found with unexplained and fatal injuries has spoken out about the “top-shelf bloke” they tragically lost. Here’s what we know.

Vincent Sweeney died in hospital after he was found suffering unexplained injuries.

The family of a Byron Bay plumber who died after suffering mysterious injuries near Ballina has spoken out about the “top-shelf bloke” they tragically lost.

It comes as Richmond Police District awaits the findings of an autopsy.

Vincent ‘Vinnie’ Sweeney was flown to Gold Coast University Hospital in critical condition after being found injured on Eltham Rd at Teven, about 16 kilometres from Ballina, on August 19.

The 43-year-old man died in hospital four days later.

Police investigations into Mr Sweeney’s death continues.

Detectives have been examining “the circumstances surrounding how the man came to be injured”.

Police previously said officers were told Mr Sweeney “was with a 25-year-old woman at an Eltham hotel about 4pm that day” and she was assisting with inquiries.

Police are working to determine the cause of Mr Sweeney’s death.

Now, “it is likely police will await the findings of post mortem examination to confirm the cause of death”, a police spokesperson said.

Mr Sweeney left behind family and loved ones including his mother, three sisters and partner.

Sister Jasmin Miller said her brother was a keen surfer who would offer anyone a helping hand.

“He was the most beautiful, hardworking man,” she said.

Vincent Sweeney with his partner Claudia Millar

“Vinnie showed up for everyone. He had such a huge heart and he looked after his family.

“He was a top-shelf bloke and a lot of people loved him.”

Ms Miller said Mr Sweeney’s death was a “tragic accident that wasn’t meant to happen”, but would not be drawn on a suspected cause of death.

Mr Sweeney’s partner Claudia Millar said: “A beautiful life has been lost.”

“He was a great guy,” she said.

A memorial service is due to be held on the grass in front of the Brunswick Heads Surf Club at 2pm on September 1.

A memorial service will be held at Brunswick Heads

A GoFundMe has been set up by organiser Lawrence Eastland to help cover funeral expenses and support Mr Sweeney’s family.

“In the blink of an eye, the world can change, leaving us struggling to make sense of the inexplicable,” the fundraiser states.

“Vincent was not only the pillar of strength for his family but also a beacon of joy and hope for those around him. Today, his absence leaves a void that words cannot fill and financial burdens that are almost insurmountable.

We are reaching out to you with a heavy heart, asking for your compassionate support to help cover the funeral expenses and provide some stability for Jennifer and her daughters during this extraordinarily painful time.”

The fundraiser has drawn more than $7500 and has a target of $15,000.

More information on the police investigation has been sought.

Police asked anyone with information or other footage which may assist to phone Ballina police on 02 6681 8699 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.