Warden Allan Collins, who lives close to the wharf, said Tathra and Kalaru would need time to come to terms with the loss of three members of a local family.

Mr Collins said the town was in the deepest shock following the tragedy.

"We can only be with these people and offer them our deepest sympathies."

He said the community, especially the life saving community was still dealing with the loss of lifesaver and teacher Ben Ellis who passed away last year.

Members of the Tathra Lifesaving Club were meeting at the time of Tuesday's accident, and immediately sent a rubber ducky across to the wharf.

Members were being debriefed and offered counselling today, he said.

The community is still also mourning the loss of the Bell children at Pericoe who died in June this year.

As dark clouds and rain gathered over the wharf, Mr Collins said the weather reflected the sombreness of Tathra and Kalaru yesterday.

Mr Collins knows the grief of losing a child.

"I lost a child when she was eight. I can appreciate what it feels like.

"You need a lot of friends and a lot of faith and time to heal."