Kody was not driving a car too fast, he was not binge drinking, nor was not committing a crime.

He was merely having fun with his mates on a balmy spring night down by the river.

Jumping from a tree into the water – it’s something young people have done for generations.

His death was nothing more than a tragic, freak accident.

But Kody’s untimely death can serve as a warning.

With summer almost upon us, most of us will head to the beach, pool, dam or river at some stage over the coming months. It’s all part of the great Australian way of life in summer.

But people should be aware that these places are potential death traps.

Kody, unfortunately, will not be the only person the lose their life this summer.

Surfers will succumb to rips and fishermen will be swept off rocks; and, of course, small children will drown in backyard pools or in farm dams.

Kody’s family and friends, and least of all Kody, would not want us to stop our love affair with the water this summer.

Kody loved life, but he would not have wanted to lose one of his loved ones in an accident such as this.

Be aware of the dangers and stay safe this summer.

Look after your family members and mates.

And remember, tragedy can strike when we least expect it.

The Maitland community offers its deepest sympathy to Kody’s parents, his family and friends.