Northern Territory: The family of Dion Robbins, who tragically drowned, have spoken of their loss
The family of a little boy who drowned over the weekend in Palmerston has spoken of their profound heartbreak following the loss of their “loving little boy”, three-year-old Dion Robbins.
The tragedy unfolded on Saturday afternoon when Dion, an adventurous and happy child, used a stool to reach the backyard pool latch and let himself in to retrieve some toys.
Around 3:30pm, he was found unresponsive in the water. Despite CPR efforts by family, paramedics and Northern Territory police, Dion was pronounced dead at the scene.
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By continuing you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy.His aunty, Lizzie Robbins, shared her family’s grief with the NT News.
“Dion was the most caring and loving little boy... any room he walked into, he made people smile and laugh,” she said.
“He had the most infectious laugh and loved his baby brother endlessly. They were the two amigos — always getting into mischief together.”
Dion was just weeks away from celebrating his fourth birthday.
Sue Longstaff, another aunty of Dion’s, has launched a GoFundMe campaign to help support the family during this devastating time.
“There are no words to describe the pain of his loss,” Ms Longstaff wrote.
“The family is understandably devastated and would be forever grateful for any support their local community might be in a position to provide so that little Dion can be laid to rest respectfully.”
The tragedy sent shockwaves through Palmerston, with the community fundraising over $4000 by Monday afternoon.
Ms Robbins extended her heartfelt thanks to those who have donated on behalf of Dion’s parents, Chris Robbins and Amber Fennell.
“The family really appreciates the support they’re getting at this trying time,” she said.
Dion’s death comes amid alarming statistics on drowning in the Northern Territory.
According to Royal Life Saving Australia’s 2024 report, the NT recorded the highest drowning rates per capita across both regional and metro areas in the country.
The Top End had the highest rate of any regional area — 6.06 per 100,000 — while Darwin, Palmerston and Litchfield topped metro areas at 2.4 per 100,000.
While natural waterways account for the majority of drowning deaths in the NT, backyard pools still pose a significant danger to young children.
Since 2014, 28 per cent of the Territory’s 68 drowning deaths have occurred in pools, with 37 per cent taking place in rivers and creeks.
