Melbourne residents Vincent Satuala Atulia and Andrew Colivas die on holiday in Vietnam
Two young Australians have died mysteriously in Vietnam and their families are now fighting to bring the bodies home in search of answers.
Vincent Satuala Atulia, 24, and Andrew Colivas, 25, were probably vacationing with friends in Vietnam, Southeast Asia, when they died unexpectedly.
Relatives of the two Melbourne men confirmed their deaths on social media on Monday.
The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) is providing consular assistance to the family of a man who died in Vietnam and three other Australians, The Herald Sun reported.
The reason for the men’s deaths remains unknown.
Daily Mail Australia has contacted DFAT for further comment.
The men’s families have set up separate online fundraisers to cover the upcoming costs of their repatriation and funeral.
The fundraiser for Mr. Colivas has already raised over $35,000, while the fundraiser for Mr. Atulia has raised over $52,000.
The family of Melbourne native Andrew Colivas (pictured) announced his death on Monday
Vincent Satuala Atulia (pictured) was traveling with friends in Vietnam when he died unexpectedly
Mr Atulia’s family described him as a young, deeply religious man who dedicated his life to his family and friends.
He was also the sole breadwinner of his family.
“He was the epitome of great excellence. A young, generous heart who always cared for others before himself,” they wrote.
“Most people who knew Vincent knew that family and God were always at the center of all his endeavors in his short life.”
“He gave his life to care for and protect his loving family.”
“Vincent was a loyal member of St Agatha’s Parish Cranbourne, an aspiring rugby player for the Casey Warriors rugby league team, a loyal and dedicated employee of MC Labour Hire and an active member of the CFMEU/CFMEU Pasifika.”
Mr Atulia’s sister Miriama shared her personal tribute on social media.
“You have made your family so proud with the life you have led, the support and protection you have given us, and everything you have provided for us: money, food, clothing and a roof over our heads,” she wrote.
“You did more for a family than any brother could do. You were always there for us when we needed you.”
“You always supported us when something went wrong. You were always there on time when I called you. You always protected our family and especially our parents.”
Her brother Douglas added: “The day I lost my brother, my everything, my right hand, my leader. I still wake up hoping it wasn’t true.”
“I wish I could hear your voice and see your face one last time. No words can describe the pain.”
“I lost my brother who taught me everything I know and made me who I am today. I’m lost without you, brother.”
“We should grow old together and watch you make it in life, achieve your goals and set a good example.”
The families of Mr Colivas and Mr Atulia (pictured) both described their deaths as “sudden”.
Mr. Colivas will be remembered as a religious family man and a talented athlete with a passion for boxing.
“He tragically lost his life in Vietnam and it will be a long process to bring him home,” the family wrote.
“He was a kind, generous and selfless person who loved his family, his friends and everything he attempted in life,” they said.
“Andrew was someone who did everything humanly possible to help and protect everyone.
“He was a committed member of the Orthodox Church of Saint Gregory and devoted to his faith.”
“We pray for strength in this time of grief, may God bring you safely home to us.”
