Emotional tributes for lawyer and migration agent Graeme Carmody killed in Christmas tragedy in Great Southern

A Christmas Day tragedy sent ripples of sadness from the Great Southern around the world after Perth man Graeme Carmody was killed in a crash on Albany Highway. The 47-year-old was travelling south on the highway near Kendenup just after 11am when his Toyota Camry left the road and rolled into bushes. Paramedics, police and firefighters rushed to the scene but Mr Carmody, the sole occupant of the vehicle, died of his injuries. News of his death triggered an outpouring of tributes for a relative, friend and migration agent who had earned a reputation for his drive to help others. He took his first job in Perth in 2015 after relocating from his native New Zealand. A lawyer and registered migration agent with a masters in linguistics, Mr Carmody joined FYME in May 2019 — a professional development and migration consultancy in Perth. On Boxing Day, FYME took to social media to announce their team had “suffered a tragic loss”. “Our lovely Graeme Carmody passed away after a car accident,” FYME said on Facebook. “It is hard to find the right words at a time like this. We would like to say that he was an incredible human being, passionate about helping people and we will all miss his positivity and kindness.” That post drew more than 100 comments from people who had dealt with Mr Carmody, with some of the tributes written in foreign languages. Emma Kay said it was “devastating news”. “Graeme was the most thoughtful and caring man, who would do everything in his power to help others and achieve their goals,” she said. “His smile was infectious and he will be truly, truly missed.” Mr Carmody’s colleague, Raquel Louro, said the office would not be the same without him. “He was truly an angel in life and will be a forever angel for all of us. He helped so many people and was the light of the room everywhere he went,” Ms Louro said. His sister Linda Way, who still lives in New Zealand, said the comments from colleagues and clients showed her brother’s “true nature”. She said her little brother would “always live in our hearts”. “Graeme had the biggest of hearts and always saw the best in everyone,” Ms Way said. “He would always be there for you whatever you needed. “He lived life to the full and will be greatly missed by all who were lucky enough to be touched by the wonderful generous and kind person he truly was.” Mr Carmody’s death was the 26th on Great Southern Police District roads this year. Major Crash officers are investigating the incident and have appealed for information from the public. Anyone who witnessed the crash or saw the Toyota Camry travelling in the area before the crash is asked to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or www.crimestopperswa.com.au.