Ricky Harris: Father who drowned at Native Dog Beach in Bremer Bay saving two children honoured a ‘hero’

A father who drowned at Bremer Bay saving two children — including his own son — has been remembered for “selflessly giving his life to protect others”. Ricky Harris, 43, was holidaying in Bremer Bay when he was pulled from the waters at Native Dog Beach on January 14 after bravely running into the water to save two children caught in a rip. One of the children was Mr Harris’ own son, while the other was a son of a close friend. Mr Harris became unresponsive and was carried to the shore and given CPR. He was taken to Bremer Bay Nursing Post but could not be saved. Mr Harris’ friend, David Hodgson, has since launched a GoFundMe in a bid to cover “funeral costs, day-to-day expenses, and providing a stable foundation for his family as they navigate life without him”. “Honouring a hero,” Mr Hodgson said in a post. “Ricky Harris selflessly gave his life to protect others, embodying the kind of live, courage and sacrifice that defined his character.” Mr Harris leaves behind his wife, Aurelie, and three young children. “Ricky was a man of service, having dedicated 12 years of his life to the Navy, serving his country with honour and pride,” Mr Hodsdon said. “He selflessly went above and beyond to help those around him. “His compassion and zest for life made him an inspiration to us all. “A family man at heart, Ricky brought his loving nature into the workplace and was frequently sharing stories of his wife and children, making his love he had for his family apparent to all.” The GoFundMe — which has a target amount of $100,000 — has already raised $57,800. It comes amid a spate of drownings, including Tyler Jury, 17, who died at Lake Leschenaultia on January 14 after becoming trapped under a pontoon. On January 10, Sio Afamasaga, 22, was rushed to hospital after being caught in a rip at City Beach. Tragically, despite the efforts of first responders, he died in hospital. And on January 4, Olya Tikhanova, 40, died after being swept off rocks at Salmon beach, near Esperance. One week earlier, Perth couple Mohammad Shahidul Hasan Swapan, 44, and his wife, Sabrina Ahmed, 40, died while saving their daughter at Conspicuous Cliff beach near Walpole.