Aussie dad dies suddenly while holidaying in Bali
Zoran Vidovic is being remembered for his love of sports, family and for the 'indelible mark' he left on his community.
Tributes are pouring in for a beloved Aussie cricketer who passed away suddenly in Bali, leaving a local community "in shock and grief, struggling to come to terms with this immense loss".
Victorian man Zoran Vidovic, 53, was holidaying in Bali late last month when he suddenly passed away on January 28. The Geelong man was a well-known member of the sporting community in the city, where he captained Bell Park Cricket Club's third grade team, leading them to a win twice during the 2021-22 season.
Vidovic, who leaves behind two daughters, Bella and Lulu, was also a keen footballer, "featuring prominently in the record books" throughout his time at The North Shore Football and Netball Club.
'Cherished' father remembered
"Great friend" and teammate Michael Lymer described Vidovic as a "cherished member of the community".
"It is with the deepest sorrow that we share the news of the untimely passing of Zoran Vidovic on January 28, 2024, in Bali," Lymer wrote on a fundraising page set up over the weekend in the wake of the surprise death.
Loved one are hoping to raise funds to cover the potential repatriation costs to bring Zoran back home to Australia as well as assisting his daughters with their ongoing living expenses.
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"Zoran was a cherished member of our community, a beloved friend to many, and most importantly, a devoted father to his two daughters, Bella and Lulu. His sudden departure has left us all in shock and grief, struggling to come to terms with this immense loss.
"Zoran was known for his vibrant spirit, his kindness, and his unwavering commitment to his daughters. He worked tirelessly to provide for them and ensure they had a bright future ahead. Now, in the wake of this tragedy, Bella and Lulu face an uncertain future without their father's guidance and support."
Community 'deeply affected'
Remembering the young father, The Bell Park Sport and Recreation Club wrote on social media that the community had been "deeply affected by the tragic loss".
"[The club] extends its deepest sympathies to the Vidovic family in these challenging times, a sentiment deeply felt and shared by all our members," a statement read. "Our hearts and thoughts are with Bella, Lulu, Michelle (Ex-Wife), Rosa Vidovic (Mother), Suzanne (Sister), Nick Antonopoulos, and Zoran’s nephews, Aaron and Peter, as they navigate this period of mourning.
"Zoran left an indelible mark on all who had the pleasure of knowing him. His steadfast dedication to our club shone brightly through his multifaceted involvement as a player, coach, fitness trainer, and administrator, playing a pivotal role in fostering a united and welcoming environment within our community."
A man who described himself as "like a brother" paid tribute to Vidovic on Facebook.
"My Heart bleeds now that your gone Zoc, knew you before, but the last two years we were like brothers. Working together at Bell Park, your legacy will live in me forever. Love you Zoran, RIP," he said.
A GoFundMe page to "ensure Zoran can be laid to rest in his homeland" can be found here.
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