A dad was photographed smiling with his family before he drowned saving the life of his kids in what was nearly a double tragedy.
Brad Coleman is seen in the snap, taken on March 4, with his wife Hulya and his two children Raiden and Aleyna.
At the time the family had just arrived on a holiday at Hyam’s Beach on the New South Wales south coast.
Just a few short hours after the happy family photo was taken Raiden and Aleyna went swimming in the sea, News.com.au reports.
Suddenly an unusually strong rip current began pulling them out into deeper water, causing the children to scream in terror.
Brad rushed into the water and managed to swim through the water to both Raiden, 12, and Aleyna, 11, who he helped get to safety.
Tragically the 40-year-old didn't survive.
Hearing the commotion, Hulya rushed to the water where she started having a heart attack triggered by shock, 2GB reports.
The mother-of-two had to be rushed to hospital for treatment.
Days after she was released the family suffered another tragic loss when her father died.
“This poor family from Sydney’s west has been through so much grief over the past few weeks and the future is going to be tough,” present Ben Fordham told listeners on 2GB.
“They’re just really decent people who’ve experienced extraordinary tragedy. Everyone who knew Brad loved him dearly. He died a hero.”
Brad's death notice reads: “Cherished husband to Hulya. Much loved dad to Raiden & Aleyna. Treasured son to Susan & Greg.
"Adored brother to Steven & Scott. Brad was a loving grandson, nephew, cousin, brother-in-law & friend to many. So Close, No Matter How Far.”
Relative Jen Couttas said that Brad was an exceptional person and that his death has completely rocked the family.
The grieving relative said that Hulya has been left "absolutely devastated" by the death.
A fundraiser has been set for the family, which has raised the equivalent of more than £40,000.
On the page's description family friends wrote that the Colemans were away for a much-needed break when tragedy struck.
“On that Friday afternoon, a rare long weekend getaway for the family, Brad’s children, aged 12 and 11, got into difficulty in the water," they recalled.
“Brad, a devoted father, didn’t hesitate. A hero, he saved his children but unfortunately could not save himself.
“Brad leaves behind his two children, Raiden and Aleyna, and wife and soulmate, Hulya. His family must face a future without him, their lives changed in an instant in the most painful manner.
“Brad was my brother, my best friend, and the best man I knew. On behalf of my family, I am setting up this GoFundMe to support Hulya and the children. It is open to anyone who can contribute.”
