Noosa Council is deeply saddened by the tragic death of Noosa Aquatic Centre employee, Joe Tolano, who went missing at Buddina Beach on Wednesday and has since been recovered.
"Our thoughts are with Joe's family, friends and colleagues during this extremely distressing time," Noosa Council CEO Larry Sengstock said.
"Joe was a highly regarded and much‑loved member of the close‑knit team at the Noosa Aquatic Centre, where he had worked as a lifeguard for the past three years. He was a talented athlete and a kind teammate who brought positivity to every shift. He was part of our NAC family, and his loss is felt deeply by everyone who worked alongside him."
"Joe and his family have had a long and valued connection with the Noosa Aquatic Centre and the wider community. His passing is a profound loss to many across Noosa."
"Unexpected deaths are difficult at any time, but losing someone so young, with so much ahead of them, is especially painful."
Council is providing counselling and wellbeing support to his teammates.
