There has been an outpouring of tributes for a young man killed in a workplace accident on a hospital building site.
Harry McWilliam, 20, was critically injured after a steel reinforcement fell on him at a building site at the John Hunter Hospital in Newcastle last week.
Despite being rushed to hospital the apprentice was not able to be saved.
“Harry was a much loved member of our local community and had a large circle of very close friends who are devastated at his loss and will never forget him,” a family spokesperson said.
A memorial was held for Mr McWilliam on Sunday at Wamberal Beach with more than 100 people paddling out beyond the break for a traditional surfers farewell.
Loved ones then gathered on the beach where flowers, photos and personal messages to the 20-year-old were burnt in what was described as a “moving scene”.
A talented rugby player, there were also a number of tributes to Mr McWilliam from his local sporting community.
Mr McWilliam’s team the Terrigal Trojan retired his No. 2 jersey for the year and held a minutes silence before their first and second grade games on the weekend.
“Showing the level of respect held for Harry across the Central Coast, every other senior rugby game played on Saturday also held their own minute’s silence before their respective games,” the family spokesperson said.
Along with being a talented sportsman, Mr McWilliam was heavily involved with performing and acting, with tributes flooding in from the Gosford Musical Society.
“Yesterday Harry McWilliam was tragically taken from us,” the group said on social media.
“Harry was a beautiful young man who loved his theatre, his football, his family and friends.”
Mr McWilliam had performed in several theatre shows including Alice in Wonderland, Beauty & the Beast and Madagascar.
“Harry was a beautiful young man and his life will never be forgotten,” the group added
NSW Health Minister Ryan Park issued a brief statement following the incident.
“I want to offer my deepest condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of the worker who tragically lost their life on the site of the John Hunter Hospital redevelopment,” it reads.
“This is distressing for everyone involved and support and counselling is available for workers, staff and their families during this difficult time.”
John Hunter Hospital is undergoing a $835m redevelopment, managed by Multiplex, due to be finished in 2026.
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