Bodyboard rider community left reeling after man died in Cronulla water

The Gymea Bay father’s “infectious laugh and smile” will be missed by those riding the waves, and many other members of the Cronulla Bodyboarding Club.

Cronulla Coastal Erosion

The surfing community in Cronulla has been left reeling after one of their own died while doing what he loved.

Carl Robinson, 41, tragically passed away on Friday when he was pulled from the ocean after bodyboarding.

Emergency services were called to South Cronulla Beach around 7am after reports a man was found unconscious in the water.

Nearby swimmers and lifeguards rushed to Mr Robinson’s aid where they brought him ashore before commencing CPR, before paramedics took over.

The Gymea Bay resident was taken to Sutherland Hospital but was unable to be revived.

Gymea Bay resident Carl Robinson, 41, tragically passed away on July 16 when he was pulled from the ocean after bodyboarding at Cronulla. Picture: Supplied

Cronulla Bodyboard Club president Des Govender said Mr Robinson was one of his best friends and an avid member of the club.

“I’m actually still in shock as Carl was only 41 years young,” Mr Govender told the St George Shire Standard.

“Carl Robinson was one of the most amazing people I’ve ever met.

“He was so happy to be in the water and loved the fact that both his kids loved the ocean.

“Carl was always helping the younger kids with bodyboarding and we met about 30 years ago at the beach riding waves.

“Carl was a huge part of the Cronulla Bodyboard Club, judging plenty of heats and constantly pushing the younger generation to become better.

“The whole surfing community in Cronulla will miss Carl’s infectious laugh and smile and our deepest condolences go out to the Robinson family.”

Mr Govender said he would be dedicating the next Cronulla Bodyboard Club competition to Mr Robinson and “we know he is watching over all of us”.

Cronulla Bodyboard Club president Des Govender paid tribute to his best mate who loved bodyboarding. Picture: Supplied

Friends of Mr Robinson, who owned an engraving business, took to Facebook to leave touching tributes.

Azza Glossop said it was “so sad to hear that such an amazing bloke has passed away”.

“He was always so supportive towards the Cronulla bodyboarding community and so passionate for the ocean,” he said. “Sending love to his family. RIP Carl.”

“RIP mate, my childhood friend and schoolmate. Fly high,” Leah Farrugia said.

“RIP dear friend,” Cathy Mason said.

Andrew Levell commented: “Another tragic sudden death”.

“This gentleman was always friendly in the surf and up for a chat. Will miss his welcoming smile,” he said.

“Condolences to his poor family and friends. Just heartbreaking. Go and surf those waves in heaven mate, rest peacefully,” Leanne Gibson said.

The emergency incident was sadly witnessed by many passers-by, with many praising the lifeguards who sprang into action.

“Amazing effort by all involved,” Gaz Warner said.

“Surfers, lifeguards and ambulance/paramedics. Not the outcome everyone wanted and my thoughts with family and friends. Great to have such professionals on our beaches.”

Scott Waudby said: “My wife and I saw the emergency services on the beach with him and were hoping for the best. Our thoughts and condolences to family and friends.”

A report will be prepared for the Coroner and there was no suspicious circumstances surrounding the incident.