Michael Hibberd pays tribute to brother who vanished after fishing trip in Westernport Bay
A heartbroken Michael Hibberd has farewelled his brother Geoffrey, who vanished at sea four days ago. The Melbourne star also made one final vow to his childhood hero and No.1 fan in the emotional tribute.
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AFL star Michael Hibberd has paid a moving tribute to his brother, Geoffrey, who has been lost at sea since Sunday morning.
The search for Geoffrey Hibberd, 33 and friend Jason De Silva, 20, was scaled back yesterday.
They were last seen at Flinders boat ramp 6am Sunday, before their small tinny was found washed up on Pyramid Rock on Monday morning.
Hibberd, 30, today wrote about his heartbreak and devastation, saying his older brother was his “hero”.
“I will never forget how you have always been there and would do anything for not just me but honestly anyone,” he said.
“You’re one of the most unique, kind and caring people I’ve ever met and I’m so lucky I had the gift of you as a big brother through my whole life. You were my first point of call growing up when I needed someone, you would drop anything you were doing at anytime, just to help me.
“I idolised you! You were my hero. You still are!! I know you have always been my number 1 fan and the bond we had as brothers was like nothing else. It was special and words can’t describe it. I will never forget the best in you and the person you were!”
Hibberd also vowed to take care of his niece, who is set to grow up without a father.
“You were an incredible and loyal friend and the most amazing father to Indie. She was your world and she adored you! We all did,” he wrote.
“Please know brother I will always be there and take care of Indie! My pledge to you!”
The Melbourne star signed off by urging others to cherish their loved ones, saying: “Hug your loved ones. Tell them you love them. Family is everything.”
Both missing men were avid fishermen and had gone on previous fishing trips in the waters off Flinders.
The Mornington Peninsula was hit by treacherous weather conditions as Mr Hibberd and Mr De Silva set off on their fishing trip.
Strong winds and heavy rain battered the peninsula on Sunday, with wild gusts of up to 63kmh recorded at HMAS Cerberus.
A friend raised the alarm just after 9pm after being unable to get in contact with the pair.
Mr De Silva’s Toyota four wheel drive, which was parked close to the pier in Flinders, was towed away on Monday as officers investigated their disappearance.
A friend, who did not want to be named, told the Herald Sun Mr De Silva was a keen fisherman and had been fishing for several years.
Police were seen turning Mr De Silva’s friends away from the ramp on Monday and telling them not to congregate because of coronavirus social distancing restrictions.
The young carpenter and ex-Somerville Secondary School student also played for Somerville Football Club in the Mornington Peninsula League.
Mr Hibberd described himself on social media as a “single dad that loves golf and fishing” and recently celebrated his younger brother’s wedding at Red Hill in January with other Melbourne stars including James Harmes and Jake Melksham.
Recreational fishing has been banned under Victoria’s strict stay-at-home directions during the coronavirus crisis.
According to the guidelines: “You can only leave your home for one of the four permitted reasons (shopping for food and necessities, assessing medical services or providing care, attending work or education, and exercise).
“Going fishing is not one of them, unless it’s your normal job.”
Anyone with information is urged to contact triple-zero.
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