30 January 2023 , 09:01
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The uncle of Brisbane Broncos forward has drowned after trying to save the lives of strangers at a beach in Sydney.
Talitiga Taupau, a dad of six, plunged into the sea at Shelly Beach in Cronulla, after noticing that two swimmers had got into trouble in the water. One, aged in his 20s, survived after making it back to shore.
However, Taupau and a second swimmer were found unconscious by lifesavers, who pulled them from the water. Taupau, 44, was later confirmed dead, while another man, in his 40s, is in a critical condition at St George Hospital.
According to The Sun, New South Wales Police are continuing their inquiries in the area and are preparing a report for the coroner. Following the incident, the patrolled area of the beach was closed on Saturday.
Marty, 32, paid tribute to his uncle on his Instagram page, posting a video along with the words in Samoan: "Manuia lau malaga" which translates to 'have a good trip'. The star was driving to Brisbane with his family ready to start training with the Broncos when he head the news, and later added: “It’s really sad that this has happened but he will never be forgotten for his actions."
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Fans also expressed their condolences on social media, with @oldwariorwardog tweeting: "My heart goes out to Marty Taupau whose uncle passed away, giving his life trying to save two strangers at the beach caught in a rip. Solidness must run in the family."
Taupau played more than 150 NRL games for Manly (Getty Images)Taupau has joined Brisbane after six years in the NRL with the Manly Sea Eagles, for whom he played more than 150 times. His former club stated: "Our thoughts are with @MartyKapow and his family following the passing of his uncle, Talitiga Taupau, after an heroic act in trying to save swimmers at Shelly Beach, Cronulla. Our deepest condolence."
@Lavishka added: "Such a tragedy. Thoughts with his family x" while @JamesSpiropoul4 said: "Oh dear God." @idkeirene wrote: "Rest in peace, what a kind soul."
Marty Taupau, who played for Samoa in their stunning 2021 Rugby League World Cup campaign, had signed for the Broncos after seemingly being on the verge of going to Parramatta. Born in Auckland, he's also played 24 times for New Zealand between 2014 and 2018.