The Perth community is mourning the loss of 17-year-old Tyler Jury, who tragically drowned at Lake Leschenaultia on Tuesday. The popular swimming spot in Chidlow remains closed as tributes pour in for the former Air Force cadet.
What Happened at Lake Leschenaultia?
Around 2 PM on Tuesday, visitors at the lake heard desperate screams for help. About 30 brave bystanders rushed to assist when Tyler became trapped under a pontoon. Despite their heroic efforts, they couldn’t reach him in time.
“Everyone was just running and trying to find this boy,” witness Emerald McKelvie shared. “We got the boats out and went to the pontoon… We did everything but the boy didn’t come back up.”
Remembering Tyler
Tyler is being remembered as a loving brother and son who brought smiles to everyone he met. A touching tribute of flowers now marks the entrance to Lake Leschenaultia, where the tragedy occurred.
WA’s Growing Water Safety Concerns
This heartbreaking incident marks the ninth drowning death in Western Australia since December 1, with 55 fatalities recorded nationwide. Royal Life Saving WA chief executive Peter Leaversuch called these numbers “devastating.”
Safety Tips for Swimmers
Expert advice for staying safe in the water:
- Always supervise children and keep them within arm’s reach
- Enroll kids in swimming lessons
- Wear life jackets when boating
- Avoid alcohol near water
- Be extra careful in lakes, where water can be colder and harder to float in
Lake Leschenaultia: What You Need to Know
The lake, a former railway dam, attracts over 80,000 visitors annually. While recent safety upgrades were announced in September, including a designated swimming area with commercial buoys, this tragic event has sparked discussions about pontoon safety and overall water safety measures.