Coolamon Shire Council’s October meeting paused before proceedings began last week to pay tribute to Allowah Lodge worker Jomar Guevarra, who suddenly died last month on September 17. An Allowah Lodge aged care worker, Jomar died on arrival at the Wagga Base Hospital. A coroner’s report is being prepared. Thirty-two-year-old Jomar began his journey to Australia with Groworx in the Philippines in May 2023, where his training started to become an aged care worker in Australia. Following one minute’s silence at the start of the council meeting, the council’s General Manager, Tony Donoghue, spoke about the young man’s pathway to Coolamon and the positive impact Jomar had at Allowah Lodge. “Jomar arrived in Australia on 15 November 2023 and had turned 30 three weeks prior to his arrival,” Mr Donoghue said. “He was extremely nervous, but also very excited about his life ahead of him, living and working within our community; on reflection, he also had the smallest suitcase amongst the cohort we collected from Wagga Airport. “Jomar resided at our Dunrobin Street property and was popular amongst his colleagues and peers. “This young man was a no-fuss, quiet, calm and extremely kind man.” Mr Donoghue said it had been a privilege to observe Jomar’s growing confidence, while starting his new chapter in Coolamon and still financially providing for his family back in the Philippines. “Prior to making the decision to migrate to Australia, Jomar successfully completed a Bachelor of Science in IT in 2020 and his colleagues and friends have commented just how helpful Jomar was to them when it came to technology,” Mr Donoghue said. “It goes without saying that he was much loved by our residents and staff at Allawah Lodge. “He greeted all he knew with a big wave and infectious smile and loved attending the New Year’s Eve event in the main street – quite often being one of the last to leave. “Jomar will be remembered as a popular, inclusive, conscientious and well-respected member of our staff.” Away from his work at Allawah Lodge, Jomar was devoted to his family in the Philippines, where he was the sole provider. He had worked on their farm, growing bananas, coconuts, corn, sweet potatoes, cacao and other crops. Jomar will be remembered as a well-respected member of staff and for his kindness, generosity and dedication to residents at Allawah Lodge. His remains will be repatriated to his home province of Leyte in the Philippines, where he will be laid to rest by his family. Community members shared messages of condolence on social media following the announcement of Jomar’s passing. Allawah Lodge will pay tribute and celebrate Mr Guevarra's life and dedication on his birthday tomorrow (23 October). The council will remain in contact with Jomar’s family to offer support and assistance where possible. Vale Jomar Guevarra 23/10/1993 - 17/09/2026
