Darcy Coulson was put on life support after suffering a brain injury at a wakeboarding park on July 5, 2025. Picture: GoFundMe
A Pearcedale father remains in critical condition after a devastating wakeboarding accident turned a day of family fun into a life-threatening emergency.
Darcy Coulson, 35, was at a Water Park in Victoria’s South-East with his seven-year-old son, Sonny, on Saturday, 5 July, when he fell from his wakeboard and struck his head on a ramp. He lost consciousness and was submerged in the water for several minutes before help arrived.
According to a GoFundMe campaign set up by family and friends, Sonny witnessed the fall and was the first to raise the alarm.
“In a moment no child should ever experience, Sonny witnessed the fall and was the first to raise the alarm,” the campaign states.
Darcy was resuscitated at the scene by first responders and taken to The Alfred Hospital, where he remains in critical condition. He suffered a severe brain bleed and significant oxygen deprivation.
After 10 days on life support, Darcy was stable enough to begin waking. In an update posted on 16 July, GoFundMe organiser Danielle Dickson described the moment as a major milestone — but also “the hardest day yet” for partner Leah Coulson.
The following day, Darcy’s catheter and oxygen support were removed, and he began his first physiotherapy session. He was transferred into a reclining medical chair and was able to taste puréed food.
“In true Darcy fashion, he told Leah that he’s a man, a tradie, and he needs to get back to work so he can provide for them,” the update reads.
Darcy and Leah have two children, Sonny and Millie. Leah has taken leave from work to care for the family while navigating the uncertainty of Darcy’s condition.
A GoFundMe campaign launched to assist with expenses has so far raised $16,351 of its $18,000 goal, with donations from more than 150 supporters. Funds will help cover:
- Living costs while Leah is unable to work
- Travel to and from the hospital
- Medical and rehabilitation expenses
- Psychological support for the children
- Any long-term care Darcy may require
“We’re so proud of every step he’s taken so far,” Danielle wrote in the latest update. “A heartfelt thank you to the incredible team at The Alfred Hospital for the care and support they continue to provide.”
Darcy’s recovery remains uncertain, but his family and community say they are buoyed by his strength and the overwhelming generosity shown by friends, strangers and neighbours alike.
