WARNING: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander readers are advised the following article contains the names and images of Indigenous children who have died.
A local community is mourning the tragic loss of two Aboriginal boys from the North Gold Coast area, who took their own lives within days of one another.
Treyvon Bradshaw and Kaiyah Kennedy, aged 13 and 12, were both closely involved in the Coomera Cutters Rugby League Club, with the club taking to social media to announce their tragic deaths.
"Devastating News," a club spokesperson wrote.
"Yet another Coomera Cutters Rugby League child pass [sic] from Suicide this week.
"This is the second incident this week. Young Treyvon was 13 and Kaiyah is only 12, still young boys. We can't believe we're sharing news like this, it's unbelievable."
In another post, the club called on everyone to "please look after one another".
"If you're struggling, you are never alone," the club wrote. "Speak to someone you trust, reach out, and remember that you are loved, valued and you matter."
News.com.au reported Treyvon died on September 26, while Kaiyah died on Friday, October 2.
On a GoFundMe page for Kaiyah, he was described as a "mischievous and loving brother to Malakai and Jojo, and a bright light on the Gold Coast".
"He was a proud Aboriginal boy who deeply loved learning and being immersed in his culture. He was also an absolute ball of energy and fun,' the post reads.
"While he certainly liked to test the rules and everyone's patience, he did it with a charm that meant you wouldn't have him any other way. There was never a dull moment with Kaiyah, and his absence will forever leave an echoing void."
Separate online fundraisers for the boys' families had raised a combined $50,000 by Tuesday morning.
Writing on social media, Independent Senator Lidia Thorpe said she was "absolutely devastated" to hear about the loss of Treyvon and Kaiyah, noting they "had their whole lives ahead of them".
"My heart is with their families, their friends, the Coomera Cutters community, and everyone who loved these beautiful young boys," she said.
"To our young people reading this: you are loved. Your people love you, and your ancestors are with you. If you are struggling, you don't have to face it alone. Lean on your people when you need to. Reach out to your family, your friends, your elders, or a support service. You deserve to be heard and supported."
A GoFundMe for Kaiyah's family can be found here
A GoFundMe for Treyvon's family can be found here
1800 Respect (1800 737 732)
Lifeline (13 11 14)
13YARN (13 92 76)
Yarning Safe'N'Strong (1800 959 563)
Beyond Blue (1300 22 46 36)
