Family devastated by Sunshine Coast drownings

“When we found out, it was like heaven and earth came down on us,” Mr Beramo said, adding that Mr Caballa had stayed in frequent contact with his many relatives still in the Philippines.

This had been no different as they headed out from Kingaroy for a holiday. “We were all happy seeing they were having a good time,” Mr Beramo said.

He added that his cousin was a responsible father and husband who had also been the first to help family members back in the Philippines with financial and emotional support after Typhoon Vamco hit the country last month.

“This is a really sad time for the entire family,” he said.

One passerby reportedly swam out to help the group, which was caught in a fast-moving rip, before having to also be assisted by his…