A six-year-old boy critically injured when he was flung from a fast-moving carnival ride in Victoria has died in hospital.
Eugene Mahauariki was on the Cha Cha at a carnival in Rye, on the Mornington Peninsula, on Easter Monday.
He died at the Royal Children's Hospital on Friday, his devastated family said.
"Last night we said a sad farewell to our beautiful son," his mother Tammy and father Stacey said in a statement on Saturday.
"While our hearts are broken, it is important to us that Eugene is remembered as we knew and loved him.
"Eugene was a happy, kind and caring boy and he loved nothing more than to dance."
Police say the accident happened after the carnival had closed to the public at 5.15pm, with Eugene suffering serious head and hand injuries.
One of Eugene's parents is employed by ride operator Wittingslow Amusements.
The company also released a statement on Saturday, extending sympathies to Eugene's family.
"We grieve with them and we are doing everything we can to ensure everyone gets the support they need," the statement reads.
"The entire Wittingslow family and all of our staff are devastated by what occurred last week."
The young boy's family has thanked the staff at the Royal Children's Hospital who cared for Eugene and the public for their support and requested privacy.
"Eugene was loved by so many people and he brought us, his brother and four sisters, extended family, friends, and community so much joy and happiness in his short life," they said.
"We could not have been more proud of him and cannot imagine our world without him."
WorkSafe is investigating the incident, including the height requirements for riders, to determine if all safety procedures had been followed.
The safety watchdog had earlier said it appeared the ride was being used by carnival workers and their families after the carnival had closed.
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