Another burst of summer-like heat no doubt has made our rivers and creeks some of the most popular places to be on the Border.
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And why wouldn’t that be the case, given that it is such an enjoyable and easy way to cool down.
The predicted long, hot summer, of course, has already arrived.
But all the fun in the sun must come with a major proviso, and that is to be careful in the water.
The recent launch of the Respect the River campaign by The Royal Life Saving Society of Australia carries special resonance for Sharon Bradney.
And that is for one simple reason that no one should have to face.
It is almost the first anniversary of the death of her father, Roger, who fell victim to the fast-moving waters of the Murray River at Bungowannah.
Mr Bradney’s death is a telling lesson for all.
Some key aspects of the society’s campaign include not drinking alcohol before going for a swim, or taking care to be aware of and look for hidden dangers in the water.
Mr Bradney was across it all. He knew he had to take precautions to make sure his fishing trip was both enjoyable and safe.
And yet because he did not tick every box, the Lavington grandfather died. It was a tragedy that will live on forever in the hearts and minds of his family.
Despite having an oar on board his fishing boat and a whistle, Mr Bradney failed in one key area – he wasn’t wearing a life jacket.
The Bradney family’s loss is no doubt great and of course an extremely private matter as they continue to deal with their grief.
But that has not stopped his daughter Sharon from speaking out in the hope that lessons can be learnt from her father’s death.
The message is clear and one that all should heed, even if you are not going into the water yourself.
“It doesn't matter how old you are, or how much you've been on the water, if you make a mistake the river is very unforgiving,” Ms Bradney said.
We all hear of the consequences of bad decisions, of not enough care being taken when going for a swim in the Murray.
Roger Bradney’s story is a tragic reminder for us all of the utmost need to Respect the River.
![Untimely death shows the need for respect Untimely death shows the need for respect](/images/transform/v1/crop/frm/zTpV5j6X6iLmSh5SbcmSaP/f7a6dca3-49ae-41b1-a543-784c4cf44f26.jpg/r1979_32_4235_2756_w1200_h678_fmax.jpg)