Tributes have flooded social media for a Samoan man killed after a tragic workplace incident at a Sydney construction site.
Paulo Mau’u has been was a “proud” Samoan who had migrated from New Zealand to Australia.
7News reported Mau’u, 40, and Aymen Alahmad, 30, suffered critical injuries at a Meriton construction site on Pennant Hills Rd, near Shirley St, in Carlingford, in Sydney’s northwest, on Tuesday morning.
Mau’u later succumbed to his injuries after being rushed to Westmead Hospital.
Alahmad was taken to Royal North Shore Hospital, where he remains in a critical condition.
7News reported the men were injured by concrete pumping equipment.
A post made to social media by Mau’u’s family said he was a cherished son, treasured nephew, favourite cousin and dearly loved uncle.
“A proud Tama Samoa who would do anything for aiga. If you ever met Paulo, you know how kind, entertaining, loyal and fun he was so our aiga are truly mourning the loss of one of the biggest blessings in our lives.”
The post also acknowledged the unanswered questions that surrounded Mau’u’s death, which they are calling an “avoidable tragedy that calls for answers and accountability”.
Family and friends have paid tribute to Mr Mau’u on social media, remembering him for his good vibes and energy.
“We never really know when the last time you see someone is the ‘last time’. RIP ma uso Paulo Mau’u. Couldn’t believe the news. Will forever miss your good vibes and energy, love ya ma uso. You truly will be missed,” Teddy Rose wrote in a social media post.
“He was a hardworking father who left for work like any other day, not knowing it would be his last. Dedicated to providing for his family, he never complained and always put others before himself,” Osai Siolaa said.
“Tragically, an unexpected incident at his workplace took his life, leaving behind heartbreak and sorrow.
“His sudden passing is a painful reminder of how precious and fragile life is. He will be remembered not just for his hard work, but for the love and strength he gave his family every single day.”
The incident has been referred to SafeWork NSW, and Sydney police are continuing with their investigations.
A Meriton company representative told 7News the company was “devastated” by what had happened.
“Our hearts go out to their families, friends, and colleagues during this incredibly difficult time,” it said.
“We extend our deepest condolences and stand with them in their grief and pain.”
Meriton said safety at its construction sites was its highest priority and it was “co-operating fully” with SafeWork NSW.
A GoFundMe started for Mau’u’s coworker, Aymen Alamad, revealed he was the sole provider for his family, and he had suffered severe injuries, including paralysis and a punctured lung.
The page said Alamad has undergone “very delicate spine surgery”.
“Aymen is a devoted father to three young girls and a loving husband and a son a mother [relies] on.
“He’s always been the one to provide for his family, working hard in the field, and now it’s our turn to come together to support him and his loved ones.”
The page has already raised just under NZ$20,000.
7News also reported there was another incident at the same worksite in June when roads were closed due to an unstable crane.
As a precaution, about 350 workers and nearby residents were evacuated when one or two of the crane’s two anchor pins had failed, causing it to tilt at the base.
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