The sister of a Tasmanian man who died while providing assistance in Ukraine says his family is very proud of him.
It is understood Michael O'Neill, 47, was helping those caught up in the conflict against Russia when he was killed last week.
Bernadette Doyle said her brother, who was a truck driver, joined a humanitarian organisation in March 2022 because he saw a desperate need for help in Ukraine.
"He knew it was dangerous but could see that outside help was desperately needed to assist conveying women and children to safer places," she said in a statement.
"[Michael] became more involved delivering supplies onto the front lines, assisting with the retrieval of the injured and deceased".
According to Ms Doyle, this exposed the father-of-three to increased danger.
Former football club pays tribute
Michael O'Neill grew up in the Huon Valley in Southern Tasmania and has been remembered as a keen sportsman and talented Australian Rules footballer.
Mr O'Neill and his brothers played for the Kermandie Football Club, which folded in 2010.
On Sunday, the Southern Storm Under 17 girls team took to the Kermandie Oval wearing the old Kermandie Football Club jumper in his honour.
The O'Neill family still has a strong connection with the southern Tasmanian football club.
"There's a few O'Neill girls running around today," Mr Synnott said
"Obviously, it's tough on everyone, and as is always the case, people are working through it".
DFAT warns Australians not to travel to Ukraine
In a statement, the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade said the travel advice for Ukraine remains at "do not travel".
"We understand many people feel distressed by Russia's invasion of Ukraine, but we urge Australians to heed this advice," a DFAT spokesperson said.
"Our ability to provide consular assistance in Ukraine is extremely limited due to the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine".
Australian law prohibits Australian citizens and residents and holders of Australian visas from engaging in hostile activities overseas unless serving in the armed forces of a foreign country.
Australians who travel to fight with a non-government armed group on either side of the conflict may be committing a criminal offence.
