An Australian father-of-three has been killed in the Ukraine war after travelling to the embattled nation to help with humanitarian support.
Family of Mick Charles O’Neill, 47, confirmed the death on social media with a flood of tributes after he travelled to Ukraine to help evacuate the wounded, women, and children trying to flee enemy fire.
His sister Bernadette described her brother as a ‘larrikin’ in a touching social media tribute.
"Always looking for a cause, he headed to Ukraine to drive trucks helping citizens flee the country," she said.
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"He then assisted driving the wounded and injured from the front line, unfortunately meeting a sad end."
She went on to explain why the Aussie father-of-three felt the need to travel to the war-torn country to lend a hand.
“He heard that women and children were struggling to leave the country," she said.
O’Neill’s heartbroken mother, Elizabeth, revealed that her son died when the Ukrainian army came under 'heavy fire'.
"Our family is grieving, and he has left a huge hole in our lives," she said in a social media tribute.
"He left two daughters and a son so part of him is still with us."
His grieving mum described her son as '[having] a heart of gold, a loving father, son and brother'.
She added: "If you went into battle against the odds, you'd want him on your side."
The family revealed that Ukraine has now awarded the Aussie dad a commendation for his bravery in the fight against Russian forces.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese confirmed the Hobart man's death, expressing his grief over the loss.
"This is a tragedy and I want to give my condolences to the family of the man involved," the Prime Minister said as per news.com.au.
"The Australian authorities through the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade are providing continuous support to the family."
Mr O‘Neill lived in Hobart and leaves behind three children in Australia and the Philippines.
A memorial service for Mr O’Neill will be held next month at the Kermandie Football Club, south of Hobart.
Russia's war against neighbouring Ukraine began on February 24.
The invading army have since bombed and attacked multiple cities with millions fleeing the country to avoid the Russian assault.
If you would like to donate to the Red Cross Emergency Appeal, which will help provide food, medicines and basic medical supplies, shelter and water to those in Ukraine, click here for more information.
Rachel Lang