Fraser Coast pays tribute to Dom Kruger

Dozens of people have gathered to remember the joyful life of Dom Kruger, who was remembered for his great resilience in cheating death once before, and the happiness he found in the simplest things.

With dozens of mourners decked out in yellow and sunflower seeds at the door ready to be taken home and planted, the friends and family of Dom Kruger gathered to say a final farewell to the young man who was “sunshine in human form”.

Songs were played and memories were shared, while from the montage of photos and videos played for those gathered, Dom’s smile beamed out at everyone there as Ed Sheeran’s Photograph played.

Dom was only 26 when he drowned in pool at a private home in Scarness on January 15, 2025.

His death devastated the Fraser Coast community, where Dom was well known for his cheeky personality and love of life.

In a statement made by his family ahead of his celebration of life at Maryborough’s Brolga Theatre on Friday, the challenges Dom had faced and overcome during his life were remembered.

“In Dom’s early days after a measles infection resulted in an acquired brain injury, we were told by doctors that Dom would never learn to walk, talk or ride a bike,” the statement read.

The death of Dom Kruger in a tragic drowning in Hervey Bay was met with an outpouring of grief by the community.

“Despite this, Dom beat their odds through his strength and determination.

“This was shown by Dom learning to ride a bike all by himself at the age of 11, becoming sports captain at Hervey Bay Special School at the age of 16, competing in the state running championships at age 17 and even going indoor skydiving at the age of 25.

“Dom really did prove those doctors wrong.”

Dom’s incredible personality was also reflected on by his family.

“Dom had such a pure love for life and his bright, bubbly and bold presence could be felt in every room he entered,” the statement read.

“Dom had an incredible impact on those around him and no matter what, always made sure everyone felt involved.

“This included pushing his wheelchair-bound friends onto the dancefloor at his graduation and dancing with them, or just simply giving you a hug on your darkest of days.”

The family said the loss of their beloved son and brother would always be felt.

“Our family feels an immense void in our hearts as we mourn his loss.

“Dom was a cherished son, brother, uncle, nephew, grandson, and friend.

The drowning death of Dom Kruger was met with an outpouring of grief by the community.

“We are struggling to find the words to express how much Dom meant to us, and our lives will never be the same without him.

“Dom’s absence leaves a sorrow that we will all carry forever, much like our love for him.”

Outside the Brolga Theatre, Dunga Derby cars lined the street, along with emergency service vehicles.

The cars were there on behalf of the Fraser Coast Rally for a Cause charity, which provides support for families across the region and contributed towards making Dom’s memorial happen.

Inside, tears fell as music Dom loved was played, including Good Riddance (Time of Your Life) by Green Day.

Students from Hervey Bay Dance School performed a dance to several of Dom’s favourite songs and Fraser Coast Mayor George Seymour delivered a message on behalf of the community.

Dom’s entire family went to the stage as his mum Bec shared her love for her son with those gathered.

“From the moment you came into our lives, you became a part of us, and that will never change,” she said.

Dom Kruger's entire family went to the stage to pay tribute.

“Dom had a presence that could fill a room, and a heart that could fill the world.

“Dom always found a way to find joy in the simplest of things.

“When Dom had a fresh haircut, he would tell you about 20 times always expecting compliments every time.

“He belly laughed every time his sisters wiggled their eyebrows, and he’d always made everyone stop and watch this too.

“Dom, you were sunshine in human form.

“You lived like a sunflower, standing tall, radiating warmth, bringing joy even on the darkest of days.

“And though you are not here in body, you will always be in our hearts, in our souls, in the very air we breathe.

“Your memories are our keepsakes, and we will hold them close.

“Until we see you again, Dom — you may be gone from our sight, but we are never truly apart.

“We will always say your name.

“We will always remember you.

“We will always live for you, love for you and fight for you.”

Originally published as Fraser Coast pays tribute to Dom Kruger