A devoted father, a loving husband, and a fixture of the Cronulla coastline. That’s how family and friends are remembering Benjamin “Ben” Nicholas Coombes, whose death last Sunday has sent waves of sorrow through the tight-knit Sutherland Shire community. Authorities confirmed he was found in the Woolooware Bay precinct, just a short walk from the family home he shared with his wife, Jasmin.
The Discovery and Official Response
Police and emergency services were called to the Woolooware Bay area on Sunday, December 21, after reports of a lifeless body. The scene, marked by multiple police vehicles and an ambulance, quickly became a focal point of shock for local residents. Law enforcement later identified the man as longtime local Ben Coombes. Police have indicated they are treating the death as an apparent suicide and have stated there is no suspicion of foul play. No further investigative details have been released.
A Life Defined by Family and the Sea
Those who knew Ben describe a man whose world revolved around his family and the ocean. He was a dedicated father and a loving husband to Jasmin. Friends say he cherished every moment with his loved ones and had a deep, abiding passion for surfing and the coastal lifestyle that defines Cronulla. His identity was intertwined with the community and the beach, making the location of his death particularly poignant.
A Community in Mourning
The loss has sparked an outpouring of grief across Cronulla and the wider Sutherland Shire. Tributes have begun circulating online and amongst neighbours, remembering Coombes as a kind, caring, and valued member of the community. The sudden tragedy has highlighted the silent struggles that can exist behind a familiar and friendly face, leaving friends and acquaintances heartbroken.
The Unseen Battle
While Ben was known for his warmth and commitment to his family, he also waged a long and difficult battle with depression and mental illness. His death underscores the devastating impact of these hidden illnesses, even within supportive families and vibrant communities. The tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the complex challenges many face privately.
Seeking Support in Crisis
In the wake of this loss, mental health advocates stress the critical importance of seeking help. For anyone in Australia experiencing emotional distress, support is available 24/7 from Lifeline at 13 11 14 or the Suicide Call Back Service at 1300 659 467. Reaching out is a sign of strength, and these services provide confidential crisis support.
A Legacy of Love
Benjamin Coombes leaves behind a legacy defined not by his final moments, but by a life filled with love for his family and his community. As Cronulla mourns a friendly neighbour and a devoted father, the shared memories of his kindness and his passion for the sea will endure. His story is a heartbreaking call for greater compassion and awareness around the profound realities of mental health.
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