The parents of 12-year-old Nico Antic have confirmed that their son has passed away after several days of treatment in hospital, bringing a deep sense of sorrow to the Sydney community and beyond.
Nico was enjoying a summer afternoon with friends at Nielsen Park in Sydney’s eastern suburbs last Sunday when a sudden marine incident occurred in Sydney Harbour. The boy had entered the water from a well-known rock ledge at Rose Bay, a popular location for families and young people during warm weather. What followed was an unexpected emergency that left the community shaken.
Nico was quickly assisted by those around him, including a close friend who acted with remarkable courage and presence of mind. Emergency services responded promptly, and Nico was transported to hospital, where medical teams worked tirelessly over several days. Despite those efforts, his condition remained critical.
On Saturday, Nico’s parents, Lorena and Juan Antic, released a statement through Sydney Children’s Hospital at Randwick, confirming the heartbreaking outcome.
“We are heartbroken to share that our son, Nico, has passed away,” the statement read. “Nico was a happy, friendly, and sporty young boy with a kind and generous spirit. He was always full of life, and that is how we will remember him.”
The family expressed their gratitude to first responders, medical staff, and members of the public who offered support during an unimaginably difficult time. They also asked for privacy as they begin to grieve the loss of their son.
Nico was just weeks away from celebrating his 13th birthday. Friends and classmates have described him as energetic, warm-hearted, and deeply loved. Messages shared online reflect the profound impact he had on those around him, with many recalling his enthusiasm for sport, his easy smile, and his ability to make others feel welcome.
A family friend has since organised a public fundraiser to assist with related expenses and to support relatives who are expected to travel from overseas to be with the family. The response has been overwhelming, with donations pouring in from across Australia, underscoring the compassion felt by the wider community.
The incident occurred during a period of increased marine activity along the New South Wales coastline. Authorities confirmed several similar encounters within a short timeframe, prompting precautionary beach closures and heightened monitoring. Officials have noted that environmental conditions, including recent weather patterns and water movement, may have contributed to unusual activity in coastal and harbour areas.
In response, authorities have reiterated safety advice, encouraging people to remain alert, follow guidance from lifeguards, and stay informed about local conditions. Ongoing surveillance measures, including aerial monitoring and marine detection programs, remain in place to reduce risk and reassure the public.
While investigations and assessments continue, the focus for many has shifted from the circumstances of the incident to the memory of a young life lost far too soon. Nico Antic’s story has become a solemn reminder of the unpredictability of nature and the importance of community in moments of loss.
Above all, he is remembered not for the way his life ended, but for how he lived — with joy, kindness, and a spirit that left a lasting mark on everyone who knew him.