AN Australian Army recruit who died in NSW on Tuesday was a former Alexandra Hills State High School student.
An Australia Defence Force spokesperson said 18-year-old recruit Liam Wolf was completing basic training at the Army Recruit Training Centre in Kapooka when he was involved in an incident on Friday.
"He was transported to Wagga Wagga Base Hospital before being airlifted to Sydney for specialist treatment," he said.
"Despite the best efforts of emergency services and hospital health care providers, Liam was pronounced dead on April 23."
Former soldier Cr Paul Golle said Mr Wolf's tragic passing just before Anzac Day would impact many.
"This tragic loss of such a brave young Redlands man has resonated throughout our community and the defence community and our heartfelt condolences go to Liam's mother," Cr Golle said.
"My thoughts are with Liam's family right now after receiving the tragic news and to Liam's platoon who will also be dealing with the loss of a mate, a brother, and a trusted companion."
"Liam was a soldier, a proud Redlander and he wanted to serve his country, enlisting like so many before him in the mindset of being part of the Anzac tradition, he gave his all paying the ultimate sacrifice."
A crowdfunding campaign has been started via GoFundMe asking for donations to help the family with medical expenses incurred while Mr Wolf was in hospital, costs to fly his mother to NSW to be with her son and funeral expenses.
"Just a helping hand in this tough time," the appeal said.
A friend who shared the GoFundMe link said any donation, even $1 helped.
"He was an amazing person, always happy and putting a smile on others," the friend wrote.
Another friend posted on social media: "I'm lost for words, our friendship over these many years I will cherish forever, RIP love you bro."
Ambulance officers were called to the Australia Defence Force base outside Wagga Wagga about 8.30am on Good Friday.
It was reported at the time that a recruit had fallen five metres during routine training.
NSW Ambulance Service Riverina district manager Eamonn Purcell said the man had to be resuscitated after suffering cardiac arrest.
Mr Purcell said the 18-year-old had fallen down a tunnel and was partially submerged in water.
He was extricated, resuscitated and taken to Wagga Base Hospital in a critical condition.
The Kapooka base includes obstacle courses, high ropes courses and an abseiling wall.
On Tuesday, the ADF spokesperson said the department offered its deepest condolences to Mr Wolf's family and friends and welfare support was being provided to them.
"Defence notes the commendable actions of those army members and health staff involved in providing immediate first aid."
The ADF was working with NSW Police and ComCare to investigate the incident.
