A heartbroken family is mourning the loss of Monitake “Moni” Karakaua, a beloved husband and father who was swept off rocks and into the ocean at Western Australia’s dangerous Salmon Holes on Anzac Day.
The 29-year-old had been enjoying a day out with his wife Tongauea, their two young children, and friends at the notorious fishing spot near Albany when tragedy struck. Around 1.30pm, Moni lost his footing and plunged into the surf. His life jacket reportedly failed to inflate, and despite frantic efforts by his friends, he could not be rescued.
“I witnessed everything. It’s just devastating,” Tongauea told 7NEWS.com.au. “I was helpless. My heart breaks.”
The family’s joy just weeks earlier, celebrating their 10th wedding anniversary, now sits in stark contrast to their grief. Tongauea described Moni as “a workaholic”, a man of faith, and a pillar of strength for her and their children, six-year-old Arima and eight-year-old Sarah.
“I’m so blessed to have him as a husband and their father. No one can replace him,” she said.
Originally from Fiji, Moni had moved to Katanning—277km southeast of Perth—in 2020, leaving behind his family with the dream of building a better future in Australia. After securing a job with sheep meat processor WAMMCO, he worked tirelessly, longing for the day his wife and children could join him. That dream was finally realised just seven months ago.
But now, just months after their long-awaited reunion, Tongauea is left to navigate the overwhelming grief of losing her husband and the daunting reality of raising their children alone.
A GoFundMe campaign organised by family friend Sharon Muir captures the depth of their loss and the urgent need for support.
“On the afternoon of Anzac Day, Tonga and her children, Sarah and Arima, stood helplessly on the shore as the ocean tragically claimed her husband Moni. Moni was the sole breadwinner of the family,” Sharon writes.
“Now, Tonga is left to navigate the devastating grief of her missing partner and soulmate. She faces an uncertain future and the overwhelming responsibility of raising their children alone.
They are now facing the difficult task of leaving Australia and returning to Fiji — where they hope to find emotional support, extended family, and a chance to rebuild their lives.”
Sharon adds: “This is a time of immense sorrow and transition for the family, and your generosity — no matter how big or small — will make a meaningful difference.
“Please consider donating and sharing this fundraiser with others. Your kindness will help this family begin to heal and find stability after such a painful loss.”
The Salmon Holes, described by authorities as “beautiful but treacherous”, has claimed more than a dozen lives over the past 40 years. Life jackets were made mandatory at the site in 2019, but unpredictable swells and slippery granite slopes continue to pose grave risks.
Just weeks before Moni’s disappearance, the Parks and Wildlife Service WA warned rock fishers:
“Don’t risk it… Even calm days can quickly turn.”
It is also reported that the locals have renewed calls for access to the rocks to be closed off, especially during the Easter salmon run when visitors flock to the area, unaware of the dangers.
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