British backpacker's body is pulled from Sydney Harbour after the 26-year-old vanished during a night out clubbing with friends
A British backpacker's body has been recovered from Sydney Harbour after he disappeared during a night out clubbing with friends.
Lorcán Branagan, a 26-year-old from Carcullion in County Down, Northern Ireland, was last seen at Darling Harbour's King Street Wharf around 3:30 am on Sunday while enjoying a night out at the Bungalow 8 nightclub with his friends.
He was reported missing approximately 15 hours later, around 6 pm on Sunday. Authorities from New South Wales' Aviation Command and the marine command launched a joint air and water search, which tragically led to the discovery of Branagan's body in the water in Barangaroo, central Sydney, on Monday.
Branagan had relocated to Sydney in November to spend the summer in Australia with friends and was planning to return to his home in Northern Ireland in the upcoming weeks.
His sister, Caitlin, paid tribute to him on social media. In a heartfelt Facebook post on Monday, Caitlin expressed her grief and praised her brother's determination, hard work, and ability to bring joy to those around him with his infectious smile and laugh.
She mentioned, "Oh, what I would give to hear it just one more time. It breaks my heart how you were taken in such tragic circumstances, and my heart goes out to his girlfriend Shona and all our cousins who are currently in Australia. Your strength is commendable."
'Lorcán truly lived his life to the fullest,' she added.
This loss marks another tragedy for the Branagan family after the passing of Branagan's brother, Peárce, in 2018. Peárce died at the age of 23 due to a suspected heart attack.
"Losing our brother Peárce was a challenging time for our entire family circle, but especially for our Lorcán," Caitlin shared. "He and Peárce were inseparable. They had a bond that was like no other and an indescribable love for one another. Lorcán showed incredible strength during this time, and the way he composed himself throughout was truly admirable to all."
Branagan's passion for travel and sports was evident, having visited numerous countries and actively participating in Gaelic football clubs both in Sydney and back home in Northern Ireland. His teammates and clubs paid touching tributes, highlighting his talent, enthusiasm, and kindness.
An investigation into the circumstances of Branagan’s death is ongoing, and a report will be prepared for the coroner. A memorial service to honor Branagan will take place at Mary Immaculate Church in Waverley on Wednesday at 6 pm.
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