A heartbreaking incident has shaken the community on the Victoria-NSW border, where a young man, described as the “beam of light” in his mother’s life, lost his life in a drowning accident.
Ethan Tabe, a 22-year-old supermarket shift manager from Geelong, was on a camping trip in Cobram when he vanished while swimming in the Murray River on January 24.
His body was found by search crews the following morning, leaving his family and loved ones in devastating grief.
A Mother’s Emotional Tribute
Ethan’s mother, Sam Tabe, is struggling to come to terms with the loss of her son. “I’m extremely proud of the man he was becoming,” she said, trying to hold back tears.

“He had a generous heart, was empathetic, and always helped someone if they were feeling down. He was my reason for everything, the beam of light in my life.”
Sam had been looking forward to Ethan moving back home with her after his camping trip, and they had planned to save together to buy a home they would share.
“He made time for everyone. He worked hard, got his licence, and before I knew it, he was dropping by regularly to check on me, but mostly to talk,” she said.
Community Rallies Around the Family
An online fundraiser has been set up to help Ethan’s family with funeral expenses and to support his mother during this difficult time.
Over $20,000 has been donated so far, with more than 200 people contributing and dozens of online tributes pouring in.
“Our world has been turned upside down, and we really don’t know what to do, or even think. Ethan’s passing has affected so many of us, and will affect us for years to come,” his family said.
Investigations Underway
NSW Police are preparing a report for the coroner after recovering Ethan’s body from the Murray River.
The incident is one of several recent drownings in the river, including the death of community cricketer Harry Chatha, who was found on January 16.
According to Royal Life Saving Australia, 82 people have drowned since the start of summer on December 1, nine more than at the same time last year.
The incident serves as a sad reminder of the importance of water safety and the need for vigilance when engaging in water activities.