A Burpengary family’s yearly holiday trip ended in tragedy when nine-year-old Kaison Greaves died after becoming trapped between rocks during a visit to South West Rocks on the NSW Mid North Coast.
Tragic Accident at Popular Beach Spot
The incident occurred on Easter Sunday afternoon when Kaison, known as Kai, slipped and wedged between rocks off the shore at South West Rocks, north of Port Macquarie. The location is popular with locals and visitors for activities like fishing and playing. Desperate rescue efforts followed, involving Kaison’s father, lifeguards, firefighters, and police.
Responders battled difficult conditions for several hours, including neck-deep water and rising tides. Despite these frantic attempts, Kaison could not be saved and died at the scene. Witnesses described the father trying his best alongside emergency crews while the family watched. Authorities are investigating the exact circumstances, believing the rising tide and waves may have contributed.
Mid North Coast Police District Inspector Peter Walton described the event as a “tragic misadventure,” noting that many children likely play on those same rocks daily. A report is being prepared for the Coroner.
Family Remembers Adventurous Son
Kaison’s parents, Brook and David Greaves, remembered their son fondly. Ms Greaves described Kaison as an explorer and adventurer who loved being outside and chasing waterfalls. Mr Greaves shared that Kaison was like himself, an outdoor person who copied him in many ways, and felt he had lost his best friend.
He also stated Kaison was an amazing big brother, adding that Kaison’s younger brother Eli remarked it must be raining because the angels were crying for Kaison. The Brisbane-based family considered South West Rocks, where Mr Greaves grew up, a special place they visited yearly, ending this trip in heartbreak.
Community Rallies in Support
The tragedy prompted a large community response. Hundreds of people gathered for a candlelit vigil at South West Rocks’ Main Beach on Tuesday evening to honour Kaison and support his family. Kaison’s parents expressed they were overwhelmed by the huge turnout and deeply grateful for the community’s support.
They also thanked the rescuers, including bystanders who jumped into the water, for their efforts and for ensuring Kaison was not alone. One witness stated they hoped the family could find peace knowing Kaison was cared for and fought for until the end. A close family friend started a GoFundMe page to help the Greaves family cover the costs of bringing Kaison home to Queensland and assist them during their time of grief.
Incident Amidst Deadly Easter Weekend
Kaison’s death occurred during what Surf Life Saving NSW described as the worst Easter weekend on record for ocean drownings. Across the country, seven people lost their lives in coastal waters over the holiday period, with one person still missing at the time of the report.
Published Date 24-April-2025
Photo Credit: GoFundMe
