Lorcán Branagan, right, died in Sydney after disappearing on a night out (Picture: Facebook)
The body of a British backpacker has been recovered from Sydney Harbour two days after he went missing.
Lorcán Branagan had been travelling with friends in Australia when he was reported missing and later found dead.
The 26-year-old, from Carcullion in County Down, moved to Sydney in November to spend the summer with friends and travel.
He was last seen with friends after clubbing around 3.30am on Sunday, and was reported missing at around 6pm after failing to come home.
Police discovered Lorcán’s body in water near the central area of Barangaroo on Monday.
His sister Caitlin has paid tribute to him in a Facebook post, remembering his ‘infectious laughter’ and adding: ‘Oh what I would give to hear it just one more time.
‘It breaks my heart how you were taken in such tragic circumstances and my heart goes out to his girlfriend Shona and all our cousins who are currently out in Australia. Your strength is commendable.’
His sister Caitlin has paid tribute to her brother (Picture: Facebook)
Lorcán’s brother Peárce died in 2018 (Picture: Facebook)
Lorcán’s death comes two years after his brother also died in tragic circumstances.
Peárce Branagan died in 2018 at the age of 23 after a suspected heart attack.
Caitlin mentioned her other brother in her tribute to Lorcán, saying: ‘Losing our brother Peárce was a difficult time for our entire family circle – but especially for our Lorcán.
‘He and Peárce were inseparable. They had a bond that was like no other and an indescribable love for one another.’
The Young Ireland Gaelic Athletic Association Football club, which Lorcán played for while in Sydney, has also paid tribute to the young man.
They said: ‘Lorcán’s unexpected departure has left us all reeling with shock and profound sorrow. Since joining our club this football season, Lorcán has made an indelible impression both on and off the pitch.
‘His talent, enthusiasm, and kindness endeared him to all who had the privilege of knowing him.’
Get in touch with our news team by emailing us at webnews@metro.co.uk.
For more stories like this, check our news page.