Tributes paid to Australian footballer who died overseas as heartbroken family tries to bring him home

Joel Paredes, who played for the Warragul Industrials Football Club - known as The Dusties - lived in the Gippsland region, roughly an hour east of Melbourne. Tributes have poured in from his former club and the St Mary’s Football Club in Darwin, where he was also a member.

Exact circumstances around his death are unknown, but one report has suggested that there are “renewed conversations about road safety” in the aftermath of the incident.

His family has since launched a GoFundMe to get his body repatriated back to Australia. At the time of publication, $30,000AUD has been donated.

Cousin Felicity Paredes said: “Due to a tragic accident overseas, we lost our beautiful cousin. We are in awe of how many lives Joel touched and the positive impact he had.

“I think we can all agree we will miss that beautiful, cheeky smile of his that lit up every room he walked into.

“Given the unexpected nature of this tragedy, the financial burden of bringing Joel home and supporting our family during this difficult time is overwhelming, and any assistance would be deeply appreciated.”

In a statement, Warragul Industrials said: “Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with the family of former Dusties player Joel Paredes during this difficult time.”

St Mary’s Football Club added: “St Mary's Football Club sends its sincere condolences to Nate Paredes and his family for your loss. Thinking of you all during this sad time.

“Rest in peace Joel.”