Angelique and Collin de Wet identified as victims of Darwin Botanic Gardens accident

The South African couple struck by a fallen tree branch at Darwin Botanic Garden on Sunday have been identified as the family of the deceased mourn her loss. Read the touching words.

Angelique de Wit and husband Collin Andrew were the victims of a tragic freak accident in Darwin Botanic Gardens. Picture: Supplied

The woman who was killed when a tree branch fell in Darwin Botanic Gardens on Sunday has been remembered by loved ones halfway across the world.

Angelique de Wet, 28, was killed and husband Collin de Wet, 33, suffered serious injuries when the tree branch suddenly fell on the married couple, who had moved from South Africa to Australia three months ago.

The pair, who were married in March 2021, arrived in Darwin in August this year after Mr de Wet was granted a Visa to work in the Northern Territory.

Angelique de Wet and Collin de Wet were married in March 2021 in South Africa. Darwin Botanic Gardens. Picture: Steve Photography

The two “embraced the opportunities, the freedom, and the natural beauty that Australia had to offer” according to Ms De Wet’s uncle, Willie Bezuidenhout – the only relative she had in Australia.

Mr Bezuidenhout expressed his grief in a public Facebook post.

“Only a few months ago you called and said how happy you and Colin are (about) coming over to Darwin to make a living in Australia,” he wrote.

Ms de Wet, born Angelique Oosthuizen, was only 28 years old and described by her uncle as having an “adventurous spirit and zest for life”.

“Angelique was more than just a happy-go-lucky lady; she was a beacon of joy and positivity for those fortunate enough to know her.”

“Her infectious laughter, warm smile, and kind-hearted nature endeared her to many, and her memory will forever be etched in the hearts of those whose lives she touched.”

At this time it is not yet known whether a funeral will be held in Darwin.

28-year-old Angelique de Wet’s “kind-hearted nature endeared her to many” according to uncle Willie Bezuidenhout. Picture: Steve Photography

28-year-old Angelique de Wet and 33-year-old Collin de Wet were the victims of a tragic freak accident in Darwin Botanic Gardens. Picture: Steve Photography

Mr Bezuidenhout said it had been “heartbreaking” for his sister, the mother of the deceased.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with her parents, Wynand and Magda,” he said.

“Losing a child, especially at such a young age and in a foreign land, is a pain that no parent should ever have to bear.”

Ms de Wet’s mother Magda Odendaal also expressed her grief in a post to social media.

“My child, mommy has no words, now you are an Angel,” she wrote.

“Collin Son, please be strong.”

Mr de Wet remains in stable condition at Royal Darwin Hospital as of Tuesday morning.

It is believed he suffered multiple fractures and has possibly undergone surgery, but NT Health has not been able to confirm this.

On Sunday afternoon a staff member at the George Brown Darwin Botanic Garden called emergency services after witnessing a large branch falling on the couple.

St John Ambulance attended the scene and confirmed a 28-year-old woman was deceased and a 33-year-old male had been taken to hospital with serious injuries.