Blake D’Ombrain: South coast community rallies behind footy teen after horror Bawley Point accident

A “kind-hearted” local footy star could spend the next 12 months in hospital after a horror accident during a holiday on the NSW south coast left the young man with “devastating” spinal injuries.

Blake D'Ombrain has been described as a "kind-hearted" teen with a passion for sports. Picture: Supplied

The NSW south coast community has rallied behind a young, “kind-hearted” athlete, raising thousands of dollars in a matter of days after a Christmas trip ended in a “devastating” spinal accident that could land the teenager in hospital for a year.

The life of Blake D’Ombrain, a young rugby league player, business owner and generally “sporty” 19-year-old, changed forever last Monday when he landed awkwardly on his head and neck while jumping into the water off The Gantry jetty, a popular swimming spot at Bawley Point.

Mr D’Ombrain, who grew up in the Ulladulla region, was back in the Shoalhaven visiting family after making the move to Wagga Wagga, where he had kickstarted his concreting business.

After suffering serious spinal injuries, Mr D’Ombrain was flown to the North Shore Royal Hospital to undergo a “gruelling” 10-hour surgery.

Caleb Haddin, the Grenfell Goannas Senior Rugby League Football Club under-18s coach, and teammate and friend of Mr D’Ombrain, said the entire team was devastated by the incident.

The Gantry at Bawley Point is a popular location for visitors. Picture: Supplied

“Blake has always been the fittest on the park, showing his hard-working nature playing under-18s and debuting (in) first grade within his first year at the club,” Mr Haddin told this publication.

Mr D’Ombrain – who has been a member of the team since 2023 – was also described by family friend Melinda Croan as someone with a passion for all sports.

Blake D'Ombrain has been described as a "sporty" young man. Picture: Supplied

Ms Croan revealed the tragic accident could result in the 19-year-old remaining in rehabilitation at the Prince of Wales Hospital in Sydney for a staggering 12 months.

She said the incident sadly occurred just as the young man’s concreting business was taking off.

“Blake was rescued from the water by his younger sister, Hailey, and other beachgoers,” Ms Croan said.

“Blake will remain in intensive care for at least a few more weeks, before he begins rehabilitation at the specialist Spinal Injuries Unit at Prince of Wales Hospital.”

Sydney’s Prince of Wales Hospital, where Blake D’Ombrain could spend the next 12 months. Picture: Richard Dobson

Ms Croan created a GoFundMe page for Mr D’Ombrain and his family, with the online fundraiser accruing a massive $25,000 in less than two weeks.

Mr Haddin attributed the myriad of donations to the community’s love for his teammate.

“He’s a kind-hearted person who’d happily help anyone in need,” he said.

“Blake’s tragic event took everyone by surprise and has shook our small community.”

Meanwhile, Mr D’Ombrain’s older sister, Maddison D’Ombrain, said she was “devastated” by the situation.

“Any support of words, donations or messages are greatly appreciated,” she said.

“The doctors have advised us that positive messages, prayers and support could make all the difference.”

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