Brighton Grammar student dies after suspected food allergy reaction

Talented Year 12 student James Tsindos tragically died after suffering a suspected anaphylactic reaction to food.

James’ sisters Kristina 27, Elpida 25 and Georgia Tsindos 22 at his beloved piano. Picture: Wayne Taylor

Tributes are flowing for a much-loved Brighton teen who tragically died after a suspected anaphylactic reaction.

James Tsindos, 17, who attended Brighton Grammar, has been remembered as a “gifted pianist”, who was “beyond his years in music” and adored by his family, classmates and the wider community.

James was taken to hospital on May 27 with what appeared to be anaphylactic symptoms due to an allergic reaction from something he had eaten earlier that day.

He died in hospital on June 1 due to unknown reasons and his death is being investigated by the coroner.

His grieving parents, Harry, Venetia and sisters Kristina, 27, and her boyfriend Andre, Elpida, 25, Georgia, 22, and her boyfriend Harry, said the Year 12 student’s sudden and tragic death had left a huge hole in their lives, but vowed for his legacy to live on.

Year 12 student James Tsindos.

“He used to say to us that he wasn’t as popular as some of the other boys, but if he knew how many people he has affected through this tragedy, he would be absolutely blown away,” Mr Tsindos told the Sunday Herald Sun.

“He struggled a bit through Year 9, 10 and 11, but then blossomed into this gorgeous young man in Year 12 that touched a lot of people.”

His mum Venetia said her son became passionate about music in grade 2.

“During his darkest moments where life seemed quite difficult for him and where he was really struggling to find his place, he found himself through music,” she said.

“He found peace, safety and solace in his music … he loved playing classical music including Chopin’s Etude Op. 10 No.4 and Debussy.

“He was given the honour to play the new grand piano at Brighton Grammar to an audience of more than 100 people in April.

“His teachers couldn’t believe how talented he was – the whole audience went quiet in admiration of his performance.”

His sister Georgia said her brother had the world at his feet, with dreams to study music and entrepreneurship in Los Angeles.

Year 12 student James Tsindos was a passionate and talented pianist. Picture Wayne Taylor

“His involvement in Brighton and Firbank Grammar’s Mamma Mia musical last month helped develop his confidence and he made so many friends – he really found himself,” she said.

Kristina recalled fond memories of her brother, including simple moments such as their long walks.

“He told me by the end of this year he wanted to lose 15kg and ended up losing 16kg, I was so proud of him.”

Elpida said she would never forget James’ thoughtful and loving nature.

“He was an old soul. He bought me this incredible self-care book, it was an incredible gift to give his older sister – that’s the kind of person he was.”

Mr Tsindos said although his son died so young, his legacy would last “forever”.

“He had the courage to be himself and I admired him for that. The school is planning on conducting a memorial for him and a way to leave his lasting legacy … he touched so many lives and he will never be forgotten.”

The family is yet to finalise funeral arrangements but has thanked Brighton Grammar and the community for its ongoing support.

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