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The body of a young Irish backpacker has been recovered from Sydney Harbor after he went missing during a night out with his friends.
Lorcán Branagan, 26, was last seen in Darling Harbor’s King Street Wharf at around 3.30am on Sunday after drinking and partying with friends at Bungalow 8 nightclub.
He was reported missing 15 hours later, around 6pm on Sunday, and PolAir police and marine command launched an air and water search.
Police divers located Branagan’s body in the water at Barangaroo on Monday.
“Following extensive investigations and a multi-agency search with the assistance of Marine Area Command and PolAir, the body of a man was located in the water at around 12:45,” a police statement said.
Branagan’s sister Catlin shared a tribute to her brother on social media.
‘It’s hard to put into words how simply amazing Lorcán was. I truly admired him throughout my life, particularly his sense of drive, hard work, and ability to light up a room with his infectious smile and laugh,” his sister Caitlín said in a Facebook post.
‘Oh, what I wouldn’t give to hear it one more time. It breaks my heart how you were taken away in such tragic circumstances and my heart goes out to his girlfriend Shona and all our cousins who are currently in Australia.
‘Lorcán truly lived his life to the fullest.’
This is the second tragedy for the Branagan family, following the death of Branagan’s brother, Peárce, in 2018.
‘The loss of our brother Peárce was a difficult moment for our entire family circle, but especially for our Lorcán. He and Peárce were inseparable. “They had a bond like no other and a love for each other that was indescribable,” Mrs. Branagan said.
‘Lorcán showed incredible strength during this time and the way he composed himself was truly admirable for everyone.
“Our family is comforted knowing that they are both together again,” she said.
‘The amount of places he visited was incredible for his young age. She has visited more than 10 countries since she turned 18 and took advantage of opportunities to spend summers in China, Asia and North America. “Her last travel destination was Australia,” she said.
Branagan played for the Young Ireland GAA football club while living in Sydney, and his teammates paid tribute to him on social media.
“It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved member, Lorcán Branagan,” the tribute said.
‘Lorcán’s unexpected departure has left us all stunned by shock and deep pain.
“Since arriving at our club this football season, Lorcán has left an indelible mark both on and off the field. His talent, enthusiasm and kindness endeared him to all who had the privilege of knowing him.’
A memorial service for Mr Branagan will be held at Mary Immaculate Church in Waverley on Wednesday at 6pm.
