Gold Coast police search ends in tragedy
Written by admin on October 22, 2024
A young father has been found dead on the Gold Coast.
Tugun man Jeffery Norris, 38, was reported missing last Wednesday, leading to a large-scale search that ended tragically two days later when his body was found.
Police have confirmed his death is non-suspicious.
Mr Norris leaves behind his partner Brooke Stone and their young son, Lucky.
In a heartbreaking tribute, Ms Stone described her partner as the “best dad in the world”.
“RIP to our hero, the best dad and partner in the world. He would of done anything for us. I’m so heartbroken, we love you Jeff!”
She posted the message beneath a touching photo of the family together on the beach.
Mr Norris, a much loved figure in the local community, was a former student of Palm Beach-Currumbin State High and a beloved member of the Palm Beach Boardriders Club.
Tributes have poured in across social media, with friends and fellow surfers remembering him as “a beautiful soul” and “an amazing person”.
Former Australian surfing champion Mark Richardson shared his memories of Norris in his own heartbroken tribute.
“I will never forget our chats at the beach and how you would inspire and motivate me to get out there and surf. So many good lefts surfed together, hooting each other,” he said.
“The last time we spoke I will never forget… you seemed to be really good and strong. That’s exactly how I will remember you, mate.”
Mr Norris’s death comes just weeks after the loss of his mother, a tragedy he reflected on in an emotional social media post on October 2.
He wrote a heartfelt poem and shared it to social media.“Hey Mum, it’s time to ride the wave. You taught me love, you helped me be brave.
“Through all the highs and gnarly lows, your spirit’s with me wherever I go.
“With each sunrise, I feel your light, guiding me through the darkest night.
“You showed me how to catch that swell, In my heart, you’ll always dwell.
“Though the tide pulls us apart, your love’s a current in my heart.
“So here’s my shout, my final cheer, thanks for the stoke, Mum, love you, dear.
“Keep shredding in the skies above, I’ll ride this life with all your love. I love you Mum, rest in power.”
A GoFundMe campaign has been launched to support Ms Stone and Lucky, as well as to help cover the costs of Mr Norris’s funeral.
