Tributes flow for Kingaroy agricultural worker Jack Tuigau

The sudden death of a beloved Fijian man at age 24 in Kingaroy has shocked his family and the community.

Jack Tuigau, 24, died unexpectedly on Sunday morning at his home in Kingaroy.

An entire Fijian village, family and Kingaroy friends and colleagues have been left devastated after unexpectedly losing their son, cousin and close friend.

Ilaisa Tuigau, otherwise known as Jack Tuigau, 24, died unexpectedly on Sunday morning at his home in Kingaroy.

Mr Tuigau had been working in the meat industry employed under the Pacific Labour Scheme, a government scheme in partnership with the Pacific Island nations.

He had been Kingaroy resident for three years.

Mr Tuigau’s mother and cousin started a GoFundMe to raise money for his funeral service.

When the news broke about his passing the whole village gathered at his family home in Fiji, his cousin Filipe Batiwale said.

“We are all still in shock,” Mr Batiwale said.

Mr Tuigau with his late great grandmother and his grandmother.

“He went to church and was part of the youth groups back home.

“Even though he was in Australia he always had a soft spot for family and supported his mother who was a widow,” he said.

Friends of Mr Tuigau shared their grief and heartbreak on social media.

“Thank you for the love, thank you for the friendship and most of all thank you for the beautiful bonding,” a friend said.

“The world has lost an incredible life...words can’t describe your nature or the person you were

“Life moves on but memories don’t, we will all miss you my brother,” he said.

Mr Tuigau’s family said they hope to carry out Mr Tuigau’s funeral at home in Fiji and appreciate all the support.

“Your kindness is much appreciated as we navigate this heartbreaking moment,” they said.

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Originally published as Tributes flow for Kingaroy agricultural worker Jack Tuigau