On Oct. 30, 2026, a memorial ceremony was held at the University of Wollongong to honor Jiang Antong, a Chinese student who drowned while rescuing a fellow student on Oct. 29, 2023, at Fairy Meadow Beach off Wollongong.
Confirmed facts
According to Xinhua, Jiang arrived in July 2023 to pursue a master’s degree, and three years later he was struck by a rip current while attempting to rescue Justin Peng. Jiang’s parents, former classmates and community members from China and Australia gathered beneath a tree planted in his memory, laid flowers on a memorial stone, and reflected on his bravery during the ceremony. On Sept. 1, 2026, Australia’s Governor‑General announced the 2026 Bravery Awards, awarding Jiang the Commendation for Brave Conduct posthumously.
Classmates recalled Jiang’s volunteer work: he once called an ambulance for an injured peer and stayed overnight in the hospital’s emergency department. After his death, parents discovered he had donated blood and participated in other volunteer activities.
I feel like I’ve been given a second chance at life.
— Justin Peng, told Xinhua.
University deputy vice‑chancellor Helen Partridge said Jiang remains part of the university community, that a scholarship has been established in his name, and that memorial football matches are organized in his honor.
Unconfirmed details
No unconfirmed details remain per the Xinhua report.
