- Image
- Video
Matt’s Barclay’s father Steve and sister Lauren mourns his loss at Caloundra Catholic Church.
Source: The Courier-Mail
The young sister of teenage surf lifesaver Matt Barclay says she wants to speak at his funeral today.
Matthew Barclay died during a surf life saving competition on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast. Picture: Andrew Seymour
Source: The Courier-Mail
THE sister of drowned lifesaver Matthew Barclay has brought attendees at his funeral to tears with an emotional tribute.
Lauren Barclay, 12, was supported by a friend as she addressed the congregation at Our Lady of the Rosary church in Caloundra, reported The Courier Mail.
More than 500 people were in attendance, including surf lifesavers, club members, school students and police.
“I know my brother loved me even if he didn’t say it,” Lauren said.
“We had only just started working together, ganging up against mum and dad to get what we wanted … It worked 50 per cent of the time.
“Matty you’ll always be my big brother.”
Surf life saving officials, Deputy Police Commissioner Ian Stewart, Attorney General Jarrod Bleijie and ironman champions Grant Kenny and Trevor Hendy are among those attending the service.
Matthew’s coach and surf champion Steve Short broke down while recalling funny memories of the rising surf life saving star.
Earlier, mourners attending the funeral were handed a photograph inscribed with the words “Life is short, make it wide”.