Tributes paid to 'wonderful' Irish father-of three who died while holidaying in Australia

Sarah Slater

Tributes are being paid to a “wonderful” Irish father-of three who died while holidaying in south Australia on New Year’s Day.

John Holland Snr from The Square, Ballyragget, Co Kilkenny was in Melbourne when he got into difficulty sea swimming.

The 63-year-old was visiting his daughter Emma who had moved to Australia within the last year. It is understood that Mr Holland was accompanied with a friend for his Christmas Break in Australia.

The well-known grain merchant and cycling enthusiast lost his wife Maire in May 2022 following an illness.

Mr Holland, a former Gormanstown College student, is survived by his children John Jnr, daughters Emma and Kate and sister Mai.

His funeral notice details that Mr Holland is also mourned by his son John’s fiancée Deirdre Phelan and Kate’s Fiance Kevin Kelly, grandchildren Andy and Nell, Mother-in-Law, brother-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews , relatives and a wide circle of friends.

Fr Eamonn O’Gorman, Parish Priest in Ballyragget, explained that Mr Holland travelled to Australia with a friend to visit his daughter Emma.

Local Fianna Fáil Councillor Michael McCarthy said Mr Holland was “widely known” in the community and “missed" in the area.

A Department of Foreign Affairs spokesperson said it is aware of the case and is providing consular assistance.

"As with all consular cases, the department does not comment on the details of individual cases," the Department spokesperson added.

The Deenside Wheelers Cycling Club of which Mr Holland was a member said in a statement that they are “shocked and saddened to hear of the sudden passing of club member John Holland.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with the Holland family in this tough time. “

His classmates from Gormanstown College, Co Meath paid tribute to their friend. In a message of condolence they said: Sincere condolences to the Holland family on the passing of the gentleman, Johnny Holland.

“A wonderful classmate when we boarded together, a great sportsman when we played together, a funny guy when we lived life together, and always interested in others when we met later in life to reminisce together. One of life’s great guys who will be truly missed. May he Rest In Peace.”

Another mourner added: “Sincere condolences to John , Emma and Kate on the passing of your Dad. Your mum and dad were unbelievable friends and support to me during our many outings cycling all over the country with Deenside Wheelers. Rest in Peace John.”

Mr Holland’s funeral arrangements are yet to be announced.