Irish Tourist Dies In Tragic Drowning At Whitehaven Beach On New Year’s Eve

A 35-year-old Irish tourist has died following a drowning at Whitehaven Beach on New Year’s Eve, prompting renewed reminders about safety at unpatrolled island beaches.

Emergency services were called to Whitehaven Beach, on Whitsunday Island, at about 11am on the 31st of December after the man was found unresponsive in the water. Despite efforts by first responders, he was unable to be revived.

The man has since been identified as Sean Keaney, 35, originally from Ballinagh in County Cavan, Ireland, and living in London at the time of his death.

A Queensland Police Service spokesperson confirmed a report is being prepared for the coroner.

The tragedy marks the second serious water-related incident at Whitehaven Beach in just over a week, following a near-drowning on the 23rd of December 2025.

Whitehaven Beach, famous for its white silica sand and crystal-clear waters, is a popular destination for tourists and boaties but is unpatrolled, with no lifeguards on duty.

The Queensland Department of Environment would not comment directly on the incident, referring media to safety advice published on its website. Authorities have previously warned that visitors to the Whitsunday Islands are responsible for their own safety, noting that mobile phone reception is limited and medical assistance can take hours to arrive.

In Ireland and the UK, tributes have poured in for Mr Keaney, described by friends and family as a much-loved son, brother, and friend.

A death notice shared online read: “Loving Son of Bridie and the late Charlie, Brother of Cathriona, Fiona, Breda, Katie, Matt, Cathal and Thomas. Sadly missed by his Mother, Sisters, Brothers, Sisters in law, Brothers in law, Nieces, Nephews, Aunts, Uncles, Cousins, Relatives, Neighbours and Friends.”

London-based Gaelic football club Tara GFC, where Mr Keaney played for four years, also issued a tribute.

“After transferring from Crosserlough GFC in Cavan to Tara GFC, Seán spent an incredible four years with our club, leaving a lasting impact on everyone he met,” the club said.

“We were incredibly lucky to have Seán by our side as we celebrated last year’s and this year’s Championship victories, as well as the All Britain titles. A man always found on the dance floor with smile that could light up a room and a laugh that could warm your heart. Seán will be unbelievably missed by us all.”

The statement added: “On behalf of the Tara men, ladies and youth, we extend our deepest condolences to the Keaney family, extended family and friends.”
The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade has confirmed it is aware of the incident.

“The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade is aware of the incident and stands ready to provide consular assistance,” a spokesperson said.

Hundreds of thousands of tourists visit Airlie Beach and the Whitsunday Islands each year, with authorities continuing to urge visitors to exercise caution when swimming at unpatrolled beaches and to be aware of local conditions and safety advice.

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Irish tourist, Sean Keaney tragically drowned at Whitehaven Beach on New Year's Eve. Photo source: Tara GFC

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