He taught mathematics and science and was known for his positive influence on the students he taught.
A Nigerian-born high school teacher, Christopher Onuorah, drowned off a beach on the Mornington Peninsula, 100 kilometres south of Melbourne's CBD, last Friday.
Mr Onuorah, a beloved teacher at Staughton College in the north-western Melbourne suburb of Melton South, was described by his colleagues and students as a kind-hearted and dedicated educator.
He taught mathematics and science and was known for his positive influence on the students he taught.
The 40-year-old was discovered floating in the water by a jet ski rider, who alerted authorities. Despite efforts to revive him, he was pronounced dead at the scene.
A GoFundMe campaign has been launched by Mr. Onuorah's friends in Australia to cover the costs of sending his remains back to his family in Nigeria and to assist with burial expenses.
The campaign's organiser, Emmanuel Ado, shared heartfelt words about the teacher, saying, "Christopher was a beacon of light to all who knew him. He was kind-hearted, full of life, and deeply loved by his family and friends. His untimely passing has left a void in the lives of those who cherished him."
He said that his legacy as an inspiring teacher and friend will undoubtedly be remembered by all who crossed his path.
Mail Online reports that Mr Ado expressed that while Christopher's life was tragically cut short, it will always be remembered for the love, kindness, and positivity he shared with everyone around him.
"Let us honor his memory by offering his family the same love and support he so generously gave to others," he said.
Mr Onuorah, a dedicated math and science teacher at Staughton College in the north-western Melbourne suburb of Melton South, took pride in recognising each child as a unique individual with distinct learning needs.
On his LinkedIn, he shared his passion for fostering the all-round development of children.
Emergency services responded to Tyrone Beach in Rye at around 5:30 p.m. on January 3, after Mr Onuorah was found in the water.
He was given CPR upon being brought to shore but was unfortunately unable to be revived.
Earlier that day, an 8-year-old boy tragically drowned at a river near a remote East Gippsland campsite.
Meanwhile, in light of the tragedy, Mr Ado and friends are organising fundraising efforts to assist Mr Onuorah’s grieving family.
The funds will go towards covering the costs of repatriating Mr Onuorah’s body to Nigeria, as well as funeral and memorial expenses, ensuring he receives a proper farewell.
The donations will also be used to create a tribute to celebrate his life and lasting impact.