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Father's heartbreaking tribute to son, 13, killed in waterskiing accident

A devastated father has posted a tribute to his “best mate” after tragically losing his 13-year-old son in a waterskiing accident in Central West New South Wales.

Blake Tickell, a champion waterskier from Rouse Hill in Sydney’s northwest, was racing at the Ski Racing NSW and Country and ACT Ski Racing titles on Wyangala Dam, near Cowra, on Saturday afternoon when he fell heavily.

"Blake was recovered from the water unconscious and attended to by paramedics before being airlifted to Sydney's Westmead Children's Hospital," Ski Racing Australia said in a statement on Monday.

But Blake couldn’t be revived and died on Sunday afternoon from critical head injuries.

Blake Tickell's father posted a tribute to him on Facebook after the 13-year-old died in an accident. Source: Facebook
Blake Tickell's father posted a tribute to him on Facebook after the 13-year-old died in an accident. Source: Facebook

The 13-year-old’s father, Darren, confirmed Blake’s death in a Facebook tribute and thanked everyone for their “beautiful messages, wishes and help”.

“He died doing what he was so passionate about,” Mr Tickell wrote.

“Blakey was wise beyond his years, an old soul, had love for everybody, and will be forever in our hearts.

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“In memory of my son, my best mate. Love you for eternity Blakey.”

Police are investigating the crash and will prepare a report for the coroner.