A rugby club has started an online fundraiser for the family of a 17-year-old boy who died after a brawl at the Sydney Royal Easter Show.
More than $15,000 has already been raised in less than one day on GoFundMe for Uati “Pele” Faletolu’s family.
The teenager was on his break from working at the show’s break dance ride when he was fatally stabbed in the chest during a brawl on Monday night. He died on his way to hospital.
Shane Kennedy, from Doonside Junior Rugby League Club, set up the fundraiser and said the football community wanted to pass on their condolences to the family for their “heartbreaking loss”.
“We all know how hard it is to say goodbye to a loved one, and saying goodbye to a young child must be unimaginably hard,” he wrote.
“Uati moved to Doonside with his family five years ago and started his rugby league journey at Doonside Junior Rugbxjmtzywy League Club the same year.
“He and his family have been part of our family since the first day he stepped foot in our club, like so many others.
“Hearing the news of this tragedy, Doonside JRLC wanted to start this page to ensure that his mother and rest of his family have one less thing to think about whilst mourning their loss.
“Please donate as much or as little as you can, to help one of our Doonside JRLC families lay their son to rest and help with any other costs surrounding this tragic incident.”
It was revealed on Wednesday that the boy’s girlfriend is pregnant with his child.
Bree Piliae, who is the sister of his girlfriend Taylor Piliae, confirmed the news via Instagram.
“The rumours are true. My beautiful sister has been blessed with his baby,” Ms Piliae wrote.
“Congratulations big sis, with you every step of the way. Can’t wait to meet you mini Pele.”
She shared a short clip from an ultrasound and a photograph her sister took with the teenager.
Many people have commented on the post, including one person who wrote: “A mini him to guide your sister through life!”
Another person said: “That was his biggest goal, to become a dad.”
A third person commented: “(He) left a piece of his heart with her.”
