A UK-born dog breeder has died after his van became submerged in floods on the outskirts of Sydney.
Father-of-two Tony Ikin was on his way to the Royal Easter Show, which is being officially opened by the Princess Royal on Saturday, when he got caught up in rising floodwaters.
The 68-year-old was reportedly a well-known and respected dog breeder and judge, described by his friend Robert Zammit as a “gentle soul” who would “help everyone”.
Mr Zammit told Australia’s Nine News that Mr Ikin “loved his dogs” and was a “gentle human being”.
“Tony was not the person who would take a risk,” he added.
“He left home to come to the Royal Easter Show early, it would have been dark.
“He must have thought it not too deep.”
Princess Anne visiting the Royal Easter Show in Sydney, which Mr Ikin had been due to attend
The body of Mr Ikin was found in his van on Friday morning at Cobbitty, some 43 miles southwest of Sydney’s central business district, New South Wales Police said.
Australia declared a national emergency last month after huge swathes of the country were hit by floods, claiming dozens of lives.
An investigation into the circumstances surrounding Mr Ikin’s death is under way and a report will be prepared for the coroner.